E2Tech E2Tech Connecthttps://e2tech.org/
E2Tech blog postsE2TechWild Apricot - membership management software and moreenSun, 15 Sep 2019 10:43:44 GMTSun, 15 Sep 2019 10:43:44 GMTTue, 13 Aug 2019 17:06:32 GMTSociety Notebook (August 11, 2019): E2Tech facilitates sociability in the name of sustainability<p style="line-height: 32px;"><font style="font-size: 24px;" color="#222222">People from different fields were encouraged to connect at the summer gathering on an Old Port rooftop.</font></p>
<p>BY&nbsp;AMY PARADYSZ</p>
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<p style="line-height: 28px;"><font style="font-size: 19px;" color="#222222" face="Lusitana, serif">The Environmental &amp; Energy Technology of Council of Maine, better known as E2Tech, lucked out with a perfect evening for a summer social July 24 on the fifth-story rooftop of Old Port consulting firm Burns &amp; McDonnell, a member of the council.</font></p>
<p style="line-height: 28px;"><font style="font-size: 19px;" color="#222222" face="Lusitana, serif">“E2Tech is the leader in the state bringing together engineers, attorneys and people working in these fields who are all interested in making Maine a better place,” said longtime member Joshua Rosen, a Maine Law student. “It’s a great opportunity to learn and to network.”</font></p>
<p style="line-height: 28px;"><font style="font-size: 19px;" color="#222222" face="Lusitana, serif">Martin Grohman, who came on board as the nonprofit’s executive director this past Earth Day, April 22, shuffled a pocketful of business cards he collected at the social, finding just the right connection for various members as they stopped to chat with him.</font></p>
<p style="line-height: 28px;"><font style="font-size: 19px;" color="#222222" face="Lusitana, serif">“We do not want all the scientists in a corner talking with other scientists. We want business people talking with scientists and salespeople, and economic investors,” Grohman said. “We want to see clean technology investment in Maine, and that’s what it takes.”</font></p>
<p style="line-height: 28px;"><font style="font-size: 19px;" color="#222222" face="Lusitana, serif">E2Tech has 1,500 members with interests in sustainable, renewable and clean energy, such as solar, wind and geothermal, as well as everything from cleaner sewer systems to electric vehicles. Board members come from organizations such as Efficiency Maine, ReVision Energy, Sunrun, Tyler Technologies and Ocean Renewable Power Company.</font></p>
<p style="line-height: 28px;"><font style="font-size: 19px;" color="#222222" face="Lusitana, serif">“There’s a lot of innovation happening on the environmental and energy fronts,” said Juliet Browne, an energy and environmental lawyer with Verrill Dana, the event sponsor.</font></p>
<p style="line-height: 28px;"><font style="font-size: 19px;" color="#222222" face="Lusitana, serif">“We, the people here and around us, continue to endeavor to find a better way, a cleaner way to do business,” said Andrew McMullin of host firm Burns &amp; McDonnell.</font></p>
<p style="line-height: 28px;"><font style="font-size: 19px;" color="#222222" face="Lusitana, serif">“And it’s kind of fun going to these things,” said John Robinson of RE/MAX commercial brokerage.</font></p>
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<p style="line-height: 28px;"><font style="font-size: 19px;" color="#222222" face="Lusitana, serif"><em>Amy Paradysz is a freelance writer and photographer based in Scarborough. She can be reached at&nbsp;amyparadysz@gmail.com.</em></font></p>
<p><a href="https://www.pressherald.com/2019/08/11/society-notebook-e2tech-facilitates-sociability-in-the-name-of-sustainability/"><br></a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.pressherald.com/2019/08/11/society-notebook-e2tech-facilitates-sociability-in-the-name-of-sustainability/">https://www.pressherald.com/2019/08/11/society-notebook-e2tech-facilitates-sociability-in-the-name-of-sustainability/</a><br></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/7826201
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/7826201Adelaide TaylorThu, 01 Aug 2019 12:02:34 GMTMaineBIz names E2Tech's Marty Grohman among Top 10 Leaders for Maine's Economic Future<p style="line-height: 28px;" align="left"></p>
<h1 style="line-height: 53px;"><font color="#3D3D3D"><font style="font-size: 46px;" color="#3D3D3D" face="Libre Franklin, sans-serif">10 leaders for Maine’s economic future</font></font></h1>
<p style="line-height: 28px;" align="left"><font color="#3D3D3D"><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><font color="#000000" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;"><br></font></span></font></p>
<p style="line-height: 28px;" align="left"><font color="#3D3D3D"><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><font color="#000000" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Maine faces a well-publicized demographic challenge: the population isn’t growing, and it’s getting older. Yet Maine’s economy has grown through a dedicated core of leaders, just a few of whom are highlighted here. There are others who have had an impact and others waiting in the wings, but here are 10 people making an impact on Maine’s economy right now and for the foreseeable future.</font></span></font></p>
<p style="line-height: 28px;" align="center"><font color="#3D3D3D"><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><font color="#000000" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;"><br></font></span></font></p>
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<h4 align="center"><font face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;"><font color="#3D3D3D"><font color="#3D3D3D">Betsy Biemann: CEO, Coastal Enterprises Inc.</font></font></font></h4>
<p align="center"><font color="#3D3D3D" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;"><img src="https://www.mainebiz.biz/sites/default/files/styles/article_headlines/public/indesign-import/images/FB19_QOL_HS_Betsy-Biemann_4_opt.jpg?itok=PBhWVbf9" width="230" height="230"></font></p>
<p align="center"><font color="#3D3D3D"><font color="#7A7A7A" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">PHOTO / TIM GREENWAY</font></font></p>
<p><font color="#3D3D3D"><font color="#4F4F4F" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Betsy Biemann</font></font></p>
<p style="line-height: 32px;"><font color="#3D3D3D"><font color="#000000" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">A Harvard graduate who started her career as a Rotary fellow in Kenya, Biemann has helped CEI make a seamless transition after the retirement of its founder. The nonprofit has provided more than $31 million in financing&nbsp;to 148 small businesses in the past two years alone and stoked economic development in Maine’s rural areas.</font></font></p>
<h4 style="line-height: 28px;"><font color="#3D3D3D"><font color="#3D3D3D" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">&nbsp;</font></font></h4>
<h4 style="line-height: 28px;" align="center"><font color="#3D3D3D"><font color="#3D3D3D" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Yellow Light Breen: President and CEO, Maine Development Foundation</font></font></h4>
<p align="center"><font color="#3D3D3D" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;"><img src="https://www.mainebiz.biz/sites/default/files/styles/article_headlines/public/indesign-import/images/FB19_QOL_HS_Yellow-Light-Breen_opt.jpg?itok=zwsZmnnY" width="230" height="230"></font></p>
<p align="center"><font color="#3D3D3D"><font color="#7A7A7A" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">PHOTO / MAINE DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION</font></font></p>
<p><font color="#3D3D3D"><font color="#4F4F4F" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Yellow Light Breen</font></font></p>
<p style="line-height: 32px;"><font color="#3D3D3D"><font color="#000000" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Grew up in northern Maine, where his parents were back-to-landers. Now, after a banking career at Bangor Savings Bank, he serves as president and CEO of the Maine Development Foundation, influencing the state’s economic policy.</font></font></p>
<h4 style="line-height: 28px;" align="center"><font color="#3D3D3D"><font color="#3D3D3D" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Joshua Broder: CEO, Tilson</font></font></h4>
<p align="center"><font color="#3D3D3D" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;"><img src="https://www.mainebiz.biz/sites/default/files/styles/article_headlines/public/indesign-import/images/FB19_QOL_HS_Josh-Broder_4_opt.jpg?itok=XA27OkTK" width="230" height="230"></font></p>
<p align="center"><font color="#3D3D3D"><font color="#7A7A7A" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">PHOTO / TIM GREENWAY</font></font></p>
<p><font color="#3D3D3D"><font color="#4F4F4F" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Joshua Broder</font></font></p>
<p style="line-height: 32px;"><font color="#3D3D3D"><font color="#000000" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">In the past decade, Broder has built up a company&nbsp;that puts up cell towers and equipment. He’s hired hundreds of employees. He’s a veteran and makes it a point to hire veterans. The company is in a new headquarters in Portland and continues to grow.</font></font></p>
<h4 style="line-height: 28px;" align="center"><font color="#3D3D3D"><font color="#3D3D3D" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Fred Forsley: Founder, Shipyard Brewing Co.</font></font></h4>
<p align="center"><font color="#3D3D3D" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;"><img src="https://www.mainebiz.biz/sites/default/files/styles/article_headlines/public/indesign-import/images/FB19_QOL_HS_FredForsley_opt.jpg?itok=tMlMHeRW" width="230" height="230"></font></p>
<p align="center"><font color="#3D3D3D"><font color="#7A7A7A" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">PHOTO / SHIPYARD BREWING</font></font></p>
<p><font color="#3D3D3D"><font color="#4F4F4F" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Fred Forsley</font></font></p>
<p style="line-height: 32px;"><font color="#3D3D3D"><font color="#000000" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">If there was a dictionary definition of “beer-entrepreneur,” there’d be a picture of Forsley. He started Shipyard Brewing Co. in what was then a run-down neighborhood in Portland. He built a successful beer company, but he also started Sea Dog Brewing, chain of brewpubs, and bought up a lot of property around Shipyard. Now, he’s a partner in what will be Portland’s first “brewtel,” a hotel with a beer theme. Despite a literal beer-truckload of competition, Shipyard continues to be Maine’s No. 1 beer, by production.</font></font></p>
<h4 style="line-height: 28px;" align="center"><font color="#3D3D3D" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Marty Grohman: Executive Director, E2 Tech</font></h4>
<p align="center"><font face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;"><img src="https://www.mainebiz.biz/sites/default/files/styles/article_headlines/public/indesign-import/images/FB19_QOL_HS_Martin-Grohman_opt.jpg?itok=di6gNvGu" width="230" height="230"></font></p>
<p align="center"><font color="#7A7A7A" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">PHOTO / E2TECH</font></p>
<p><font color="#4F4F4F" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Marty Grohman</font></p>
<p style="line-height: 32px;"><font color="#000000" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Grohman built and sold a company that made deck boards out of recycled materials. He served in the Maine Legislature for two terms. He ran, unsuccessfully, for the U.S. House, District 1, seat in Maine. Now he’s running a nonprofit that touts innovation and environmental causes, but also sells out its regular forums.</font></p>
<h4 style="line-height: 28px;" align="center"><font color="#3D3D3D" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Steve Mills: CEO, Maine Beer Co.</font></h4>
<p align="center"><font face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;"><img src="https://www.mainebiz.biz/sites/default/files/styles/article_headlines/public/indesign-import/images/FB19_QOL_HS_Steve-Mills_opt.jpg?itok=tbhh3bAG" width="230" height="230"></font></p>
<p align="center"><font color="#7A7A7A" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">PHOTO / MAINE BEER CO.</font></p>
<p><font color="#4F4F4F" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Steve Mills</font></p>
<p style="line-height: 32px;"><font color="#000000" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Mills didn’t build the Maine Beer brand or convince its fans to stand out in winter weather waiting for new issues of the beer. But he was brought in with the founders acknowledged they couldn’t take the company to the next level. Meantime, Maine Beer continues to grow, both in output and physically, with its Freeport HQ growing ever-larger.</font></p>
<h4 style="line-height: 28px;"><font color="#3D3D3D" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">&nbsp;</font></h4>
<h4 style="line-height: 28px;" align="center"><font color="#3D3D3D" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Beth Shissler, Don Oakes: President, CEO, Sea Bags LLC</font></h4>
<p align="center"><font face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;"><img src="https://www.mainebiz.biz/sites/default/files/styles/article_headlines/public/indesign-import/images/FB19_QOL_HS_Shissler-Oakes_opt.jpg?itok=91plWXAX" width="230" height="230"></font></p>
<p align="center"><font color="#7A7A7A" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">PHOTOS / SEA BAGS</font></p>
<p><font color="#4F4F4F" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Beth Shissler&nbsp;and&nbsp;Don Oakes</font></p>
<p style="line-height: 32px;"><font color="#000000" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Sea Bags had been around since 1999, but it took Shissler’s vision of what the tote bag maker could be to make it a recognized brand. Inc. Magazine ran a story titled, “This company turns tons of old sails into tons of cash.” Now, with Shissler’s brand sense and Oakes’ marketing expertise from years at L.L.Bean, the company has 25 stores in resort towns from Maine to Florida.</font></p>
<h4 style="line-height: 28px;" align="center"><font color="#3D3D3D" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Melissa Smith: CEO, WEX Inc.</font></h4>
<p align="center"><font face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;"><img src="https://www.mainebiz.biz/sites/default/files/styles/article_headlines/public/indesign-import/images/FB19_QOL_HS_Melissa-Smith_opt.jpg?itok=7l_qTNNa" width="230" height="230"></font></p>
<p align="center"><font color="#7A7A7A" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">PHOTO / TIM GREENWAY</font></p>
<p><font color="#4F4F4F" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Melissa Smith</font></p>
<p style="line-height: 32px;"><font color="#000000" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">She’s helped build a public company with $1.5 billion in annual sales. More than that is the impact she’s had on Maine, moving the corporate headquarters to Portland’s East End and showcasing the city as a hub for finance and bringing with her 400 employees. Now Covetrus, Maine’s largest public company, is building its headquarters a block away.</font></p>
<h4 style="line-height: 28px;"><font color="#3D3D3D" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">&nbsp;</font></h4>
<h4 style="line-height: 28px;" align="center"><font color="#3D3D3D" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Brian Whitney: President, Maine Technology Institute</font></h4>
<p align="center"><font face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;"><img src="https://www.mainebiz.biz/sites/default/files/styles/article_headlines/public/indesign-import/images/FB19_QOL_HS_Brian-Whitney_opt.jpg?itok=cV0cq4rc" width="230" height="230"></font></p>
<p align="center"><font color="#7A7A7A" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">PHOTO / MAINE TECHNOLOGY INSTITUTE</font></p>
<p><font color="#4F4F4F" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Brian Whitney</font></p>
<p style="line-height: 32px;"><font color="#000000" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">Under Whitney, MTI has been at the center of the funding hub for the state’s entrepreneurs, using matching grants to foster independence and growth. Whitney has also been able to balance the needs of the entrepreneurial community with the demands of Augusta.</font></p>
<p style="line-height: 32px;"><font color="#000000" face="Helvetica" style="font-size: 18px;">&nbsp;</font></p>
<p><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><font style="font-size: 16px;" color="#7A7A7A" face="Libre Franklin, sans-serif">Updated: July 29, 2019&nbsp;</font></span></p>
<p><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><a href="https://www.mainebiz.biz/article/10-leaders-for-maines-economic-future">https://www.mainebiz.biz/article/10-leaders-for-maines-economic-future</a></span><br></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/7807240
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/7807240Adelaide TaylorWed, 01 May 2019 13:41:27 GMTE2Tech Names Marty Grohman as New Executive Director<p>The Environmental and Energy Technology Council of Maine (“E2Tech”) has hired entrepreneur and former State Representative Marty Grohman of Biddeford as its new Executive Director.<img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/GrohmanHeadshotSJ%20(1).png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="133" height="168" align="left"></p>
<p>E2Tech is known for its nonpartisan forums on current environmental and energy issues, bringing together a variety of voices on issues critical to the future of Maine, and is the preeminent organization of its type in the region.</p>
<p>Grohman said, “I’m pleased and honored to join E2Tech in a leadership role. I’ve been a longtime member and supporter. The organization plays a critical role in Maine’s economy and continues to grow strongly. Because of my mix of formal training as a Chemical Engineer and experience running a Maine composites and recycling company; as Director of Sustainability for a multinational manufacturer; and then as a State Representative, I have long seen the connection between smart energy and environmental policy and the future of Maine.”</p>
<p>E2Tech Board Chair Tom Eschner, of TRC Companies, said: “I am looking forward to seeing Marty, with his industry and public policy skills and experience, build on the excellent work of prior Executive Director Melissa Winne, who has been steering the organization through an important time of transition over the past year.&nbsp; With Marty’s leadership and E2Tech’s strong Board of Directors, the organization will be well-positioned to take on issues of environment and energy in Maine today and into the future.”</p>
<p><br></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/7314073
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/7314073Marty GrohmanTue, 12 Jun 2018 13:02:44 GMTTurn and Face the Strange: Economic Impacts of Climate Change (June 2018)<p>Daniel Kahneman, Nobel Prize-winning psychologist known for his work on behavioral economics and the psychology of decision-making, has said that if one were to design a problem that our minds are not prepared to deal with, it would be climate change. Psychologically, we are not equipped to manage threats so distant, abstract, and disputed and it is challenging for society to comprehend the severe forecasted impacts.</p>
<p>However, climate change is manifesting itself in ways that are local, concrete, and undisputed. Mainers are already experiencing climate change impacts on their homes and businesses. Maine’s average annual temperature has increased by 3ºF in the last 100 years and is expected to increase another 2-3ºF by 2050. This increase in average temperature is also expected to prolong Maine’s warm season (period of time where the average daily temperature is above freezing) by two additional weeks before 2050, with winter warming faster than summer (University of Maine. 2015. <a href="http://cci.siteturbine.com/uploaded_files/climatechange.umaine.edu/files/Maines_Climate_Future_2015_UpdateFinal-1.pdf"><em>Maine’s Climate Future</em></a>).&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Gulf of Maine is also warming at an increased rate of 0.4ºF per year, which is faster than 99% of the world’s oceans (Record, N. 2014. Maine waters are warming fast. <a href="https://www.bigelow.org/files/transect/transect-summer-2014.pdf"><em>Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences Transect</em></a> 6:8-9.). Maine’s average total annual precipitation has increased by 6 inches in the last 100 years (University of Maine. 2015. <a href="http://cci.siteturbine.com/uploaded_files/climatechange.umaine.edu/files/Maines_Climate_Future_2015_UpdateFinal-1"><em>Maine’s Climate Future</em></a>). Maine is also seeing a significant increase in extreme precipitation events. This increase in precipitation may exacerbate the acidification occurring in the Gulf of Maine, in addition to other factors. Maine is also expected to see, at minimum, a sea level increase of 0.07 inches per year (NOAA Tides &amp; Currents. 2018. <a href="https://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/sltrends/sltrends_station.shtml?id=8418150">Relative Sea Level Trend-Portland, Maine</a>).&nbsp;<br></p>
<p>How will this impact Maine’s economy?<br></p>
<div style="margin-left: 2em">
<ul>
<li>Crop seasons shifting or becoming longer (<a href="https://extension.umaine.edu/gardening/manual/usda-plant-hardiness-zone-map/">2012 Plant Hardiness Zone Map</a>).</li>
<li>Increases in human health issues from heat stress, air pollution, and insect-borne diseases.</li>
<li>Native species' populations shifting north &amp; becoming more susceptible to diseases, disrupting traditional Maine industries.</li>
<li>Non-native species increasing their habitable territory and requiring more intensive monitoring and management efforts.</li>
<li>Increase infrastructure costs due to road washouts, culvert/bridge replacements, increasing storm water system capacities.</li>
<li>Increases in non-point source pollution in lakes and streams from extreme weather events.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Reductions in property value in certain areas.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Increases in flood zones and flood insurance.</li>
<li>Increase port opportunities with melting Artic (if Maine ports can adapt to increased sea level rise).</li>
<li>Loss of natural storm buffers, putting properties at risk and requiring infrastructure investments.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Potential decrease in opportunities for winter tourism activities (skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, etc.) due to less snow/ability to produce snow and duration of lake ice.*If Maine ports can adapt to increased sea level rise.</li>
</ul>
<div>
(University of Maine. 2015. <em><a href="http://cci.siteturbine.com/uploaded_files/climatechange.umaine.edu/files/Maines_Climate_Future_2015_UpdateFinal-1">Maine’s Climate Future</a>)</em>
</div>
</div>
<p align="center"><strong>Want to learn more about the economic impacts of climate change?<br></strong></p>
<p><strong><a href="https://e2tech.org/event-2937332">Join us</a></strong> on Thursday, June 21 at Maple Hill Farm Inn and Conference Center in Hallowell to hear from experts in climate science, economics, fisheries, forestry, agriculture, and development.&nbsp;</p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/6305330
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/6305330Tue, 12 Jun 2018 12:40:36 GMTHave You Seen Our New Website? (June 2018)<img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/mobile%20mock_Black%20Phone%20Mockup%201.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="267" height="506" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; display: block;">
<p>Have you seen it? It's finally here! We have launched a brand new <a href="https://e2tech.org/" target="_blank">E2Tech website</a>!&nbsp;</p>
<p>Our website has been fully redesigned with YOU in mind.&nbsp;<br></p>
<p>The E2Tech website relaunch is Melissa Winne's inaugural project as Executive Director. Melissa envisioned transforming the E2Tech website into a mobile-compatible, modern site that better reflects our mission and values as Maine’s environmental, energy, technology, and business sector champion.&nbsp;</p>
<p>E2Tech worked closely with Katharine Wojcik of Adept Creative to design a site with a clean aesthetic, streamlined functionality, simplified navigation, and easier access to information on all things cleantech in Maine. By utilizing a special membership application, we are able to offer mobile-friendly registration and membership functions, so now you can register for events and check your member status right from your phone!</p>
<p>We encourage everyone to visit and explore the site, and keep up with E2Tech news by signing up for the E2Tech Connect newsletter and following us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/E2TechMaine/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/e2techmaine/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/e2techmaine?lang=en" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/e2tech-maine/" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a>.<br></p>
<p>If you have any questions or feedback you would like to share with our team, please do so by contacting: Melissa Winne,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:melissawinne@e2tech.org%22%20%5Ct%20%22_blank">melissawinne@e2tech.org</a>.<br></p>
<p>Thank you for&nbsp;<strong style="font-size: 16pt;"><a href="https://e2tech.org/">Connecting With Us</a>.</strong><br></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/6305323
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/6305323Tue, 12 Jun 2018 12:39:25 GMTSustaining Steward Spotlight: Stantec (June 2018)<p><em><font style="font-size: 14px;">Content provided by Stantec.</font></em><br></p>
<p><a href="https://www.stantec.com/en" target="_blank"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/StantecJune2015.png" alt="" title="" border="0" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; display: block;" width="267" height="83"></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.stantec.com/">Stantec</a> is a leading global design and engineering firm committed to designing with community in mind. Stantec’s 22,000 employees in 400 locations across six continents are designers, engineers, scientists, and project managers, innovating together at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships. Balancing these priorities results in projects that advance the quality of life in communities across the globe. The firm’s key areas of business include Buildings, Energy &amp; Resources, Environmental Services, Infrastructure, and Water.</p>
<p>Stantec is ranked as a top ten global environmental firm and a top ten global design firm by <em>Engineering News Record</em>. The firm is also ranked as a top ten architecture firm by <em>Architectural Record</em>.</p>
<p>In Maine, the Stantec team holds deep local knowledge and relationships with a presence in two office locations, in Scarborough and Topsham. The firm’s Topsham office serves as Stantec’s environmental hub for New England, and well beyond. From botanists to wildlife biologists, fisheries experts to soil scientists, GIS mappers to wetland scientists, Stantec offers a diverse team of environmental experts with in-depth strategic scientific and regulatory expertise. Coupled with Stantec’s Scarborough office, where engineers focus on a range of projects from bridges and power plants to airports and roadways, the collective team is focused on protecting our natural resources and beautiful landscapes while finding unique ways to showcase all that Maine has to offer.</p>
<p>Working locally in Maine, regionally across New England, and beyond, Stantec has a long-standing history leading projects in the environmental and energy markets. Grounded by safety, quality, and ethics, Stantec is dedicated to delivering tailored solutions for each site.</p>
<p>Among Stantec’s recent work is the Portland Harbor Contained Aquatic Disposal (CAD) Cell project, the first CAD cell project in the State of Maine. Working with the City of Portland, Stantec is the design engineer focused on site investigation and permitting. This project supports waterfront economic development by dredging and disposing sediments from private and public berthing areas located at piers, marinas, and anchorages, some of which have not been dredged in over 70 years. The CAD cell will provide an environmentally responsible and reasonably affordable disposal solution for these berthing areas to regain usable full-tide water depth and navigation access.&nbsp;</p>
<p>A little farther north, Stantec recently put its commitment to community into action, providing pro bono baseline ecological surveys for the 164-acre Howard Hill conservation area in Augusta, work that established the value of the parcel as worthy of ecological conservation.&nbsp; The work was done for the Kennebec Land Trust, which gave the land to the City of Augusta with a perpetual conservation easement, for use as a recreational area with trails, picnic areas and views of Maine’s Capitol and the Kennebec River.&nbsp; With hiking trials accessible from the Capitol grounds, it will be known as the Howard Hill Historical Park.</p>
<p><strong>Stantec is an E2Tech Sustaining Steward and Brooke Barnes is a Member of the E2Tech Board of Directors.</strong></p>
<p><strong>To learn more about the E2Tech Sustaining Partner program, visit our <a href="https://e2tech.org/Sustaining-Partner-Program">membership page</a>.</strong></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/6305328
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/6305328Tue, 12 Jun 2018 12:38:09 GMTEPA Policy Update & Outlook Event Recap (June 2018)<p>On Thursday, May 24, Alexendra Dunn, the new Environmental Protection Agency Region 1 Administrator, visited several locations in Maine to meet with Mainers and discuss important local environmental issues. She concluded her visit by speaking to E2Tech's network at the University of Southern Maine's Portland campus about this administration’s approach to directing the regional office. Administrator Dunn highlighted the following topics, among others:</p>
<div style="margin-left: 2em">
<ul>
<li>EPA Region 1 will host the first PFOA/PFOS chemical summit open to the public at the Pease Air Force Base in New Hampshire.</li>
<li>Innovative solutions are key to solving our regional environmental problems.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Administrator Dunn is exploring ways to run the office as effectively and efficiently as possible.</li>
<li>They are listening! Administrator Dunn will follow the lead of the states to develop environmental priorities. She is interested in continuing to meet directly with the states and will be back to Maine soon.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<p>Administrator Dunn also announced that the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) letters of interest deadline has been extended to July 31, 2018. The WIFIA program has a budget of $5.5 billion to distribute and will finance up to 49% of a water infrastructure project. More information about the WIFIA program can be found at <a href="http://www.epa.gov/wifia">www.epa.gov/wifia</a>.</p>
<p>The EPA Region 1 office is hiring! Visit the EPA website to search for positions through <a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/" target="_blank">USAJobs.gov</a>.</p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/6305293
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/6305293Tue, 12 Jun 2018 12:27:17 GMTCrunching the Numbers: New Business Resources (June 2018)<p><em><strong>CEI Wicked Fast Microloans</strong></em></p>
<p>Coastal Enterprises, Inc. (CEI)<strong>&nbsp;</strong>is offering expedited microloans designed for existing and start-up business owners. Eligible applicants can borrow up to $25,000 for working capital, equipment purchases, or to refinance existing higher cost debt. CEI makes the loan decision within three business days from a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ceimaine.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/CEI-WICKED-FAST-MICROLOAN-APPLICATION.pdf">2-page application</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://www.ceimaine.org/financing/business-financing/" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to access all CEI business financing options.</p>
<p><strong><em>Data Innovation Project</em></strong></p>
<p>The Data Innovation Project is accepting applications for Fall 2018 Data Clinics in September, October, and November. These data clinics are a FREE opportunity for organizations to receive two hours of focused, one-on-one technical assistance around data or performance measurement related issues.&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://datainnovationproject.org/">CLICK HERE</a> to apply to one of the clinics.</p>
<p><br></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/6305275
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/6305275Tue, 06 Feb 2018 22:22:17 GMTSea Level Rise - The Ocean Runneth Over (February 2018)<p>One of the many side effects of climate change is rising sea levels. In the last 100 years, sea level has increased 0.6 feet in Portland, while Eastport’s sea level has increased by 0.7 feet. Sea level can rise due to thermal expansion (the ocean gets warmer and expands), volumetric increases (water added to the ocean from melting land-based ice sheets like Antarctica and Greenland), and subsidence (where coastal land sinks or settles). Maine's natural features at risk include bluffs, tidal flats, salt marshes, freshwater wetlands, beaches, dunes, and coastal aquifers.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Much of Maine's population is at risk of being directly affected by the rising sea levels. In 2010, 63% of the Maine population lived in a coastal shoreline county and Maine ranked 8<sup>th</sup> in the country for the number of seasonal housing units in coastal shoreline counties. From 1980 to 2016, Maine experienced $11 billion worth of damage from coastal natural disasters. In addition to the natural disaster expenses, Maine’s economy will suffer as water levels rise and shorefront properties become inhabitable, public infrastructure becomes stranded or flooded, tourism is affected by changes in beaches and other shorefront parks, the fishing industry shifts harvest species due to habitat loss and species migration, and as other challenges and changes arise.&nbsp;</p>
<p>There are a few ways Maine can address the impacts of sea level rise, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions at local, state, regional, and national levels; strategically investing in new public infrastructure that takes future sea level predictions into account; creating public policy and development regulations in regards to flood zones and storm surge levels; and investing in sea level adaptation strategies.</p>
<p>Climate scientists have identified three main strategies for adapting to sea level rise: fortify, accommodate, or retreat. There are two methods of fortification, hard and soft structures. Hard fortification structures include seawalls, bulkheads, stilts, and other barriers to protect against erosion and rising water levels. However, these hard fortification structures can magnify the effects of sea level rise when installed incorrectly or to properties without the hard fortification methods. Soft fortification methods include sand dunes, salt marshes, flood plains, and other forms of natural protection. Beach renourishment can be a more temporary form of soft fortification but is costly and often needs to be repeated every 5-10 years. Accommodation approaches include raising land and building elevation, installing desalination systems, creating additional drainage systems, and implementing alarm systems to allow upgraded functions to continue in the same location. Retreat involves relocating or abandoning current infrastructure. A site’s current characteristics will influence which strategy makes the most sense economically.</p>
<p>To learn more about sea level rise, interact with NOAA’s <a href="https://coast.noaa.gov/slr/">Sea Level Rise Viewer</a>.</p>
<p align="center"><strong>Join E2Tech and the Gulf of Maine Research Institute for an<br>
interactive presentation to explore the data behind sea level rise<br>
in Maine's coastal communities on February 28th!<br>
<a href="https://e2tech.org/event-2819512">CLICK HERE</a> to learn more and register today (space is limited).</strong></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5724885
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5724885Tue, 06 Feb 2018 22:13:00 GMTIt's Electric! Alternative Fuel Vehicles in Maine (February 2018)<P><STRONG>Electric Vehicles in Maine</STRONG></P>
<P>Discussions around electric vehicles continue in Maine, particularly in light of the recent introduction of the Governor LePage-backed bill (<A href="http://www.mainelegislature.org/legis/bills/getPDF.asp?paper=HP1252&amp;item=1&amp;snum=128" target="_blank"><STRONG>LD 1806</STRONG></A>) that would impose a registration surcharge of $150 for gas-electric hybrid vehicles and $250 for all-electric vehicles. If passed, these proposed surcharge fees would be the highest in the country. In a recent <A href="https://www.pressherald.com/2018/02/08/legislation-calls-for-new-annual-fee-on-all-electric-hybrid-cars-in-maine/" target="_blank">Portland Press Herald Article</A>, a Maine Department of Transportation representative stated that this fee is needed in order to assist in covering the cost of repairing roads, which is currently funded through the gasoline tax. State conservation groups and hybrid and electric vehicle owners have expressed concerns that the fee discourages the purchase of these vehicles without effectively addressing the gap in funding for maintaining and repairing roads throughout the State.</P>
<P align="center"><STRONG>Electric Vehicles in New England, 2015 (EIA)</STRONG></P>
<TABLE width="99%" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="contStyleExcSimpleTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">
<TR>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center"><STRONG>&nbsp;State</STRONG></TD>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center"><STRONG>&nbsp;EVs Per 1 Million People</STRONG></TD>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center"><STRONG>&nbsp;EVs in Use</STRONG></TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top">&nbsp;Connecticut</TD>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center">&nbsp;358</TD>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center">1,284</TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top">&nbsp;Maine</TD>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center">&nbsp;182</TD>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center">&nbsp;242</TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top">&nbsp;Massachusetts</TD>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center">&nbsp;419</TD>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center">2,846</TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top">&nbsp;New Hampshire</TD>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center">&nbsp;258</TD>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center">&nbsp;343</TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top">&nbsp;Rhode Island</TD>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center">&nbsp;131</TD>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center">&nbsp;138</TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top">&nbsp;Vermont</TD>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center">&nbsp;503</TD>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center">&nbsp;315</TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;">&nbsp;New England Average</TD>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" align="center">&nbsp;351</TD>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" align="center">&nbsp;861</TD>
</TR>
<TR>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;">&nbsp;United States Average</TD>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" align="center">&nbsp;672</TD>
<TD style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" align="center">&nbsp;4,309</TD>
</TR>
</TABLE>
<P>In 2015, Maine ranked 5th in New England for electric vehicles per capita and 4th for plug-in electric hybrids per capita.<BR></P>
<P><STRONG>VW Settlement</STRONG></P>
<P>The Maine Department of Transportation, Department of Environmental Protection, and the Governor’s Energy Office are in the process of implementing 15% of the VW settlement (over $3 million) towards electric vehicle charging infrastructure in the State.&nbsp;Installing travel corridors are first priority. While Maine itself does not have many electric vehicles, the tourism industry has seen steady revenue and increases in visitors over the last four years. These visitors are coming from Canadian Providences, other New England states, the mid-Atlantic, and from overseas. Those visitors driving to Maine are increasingly coming by electric vehicle, requiring Maine to meet increased charging infrastructure needs to continue tourism revenue and visitor growth.&nbsp;</P>
<P><STRONG>Tesla Destination Charging - Host Sites Needed</STRONG></P>
<P>Tesla has partnered with ReVision Energy to install Tesla wall and pedestal level 2 chargers (minimum of four chargers per site) across New England. The selected hosts will receive a valuable charging amenity for little or no cost and cross-marketing from Tesla to attract customers. ReVision is looking for ideas for host locations, including but not limited to: large employers, retail outlets, sports venues, hotels, resorts, restaurants, golf courses, hospitals, large parking lots, recreation destinations, ski resorts, breweries, municipalities, and nonprofits. If you have an idea for a host site, or if your business is interested, please contact Barry Woods, Director of <A href="https://www.revisionenergy.com/at-work/ev-charging-business/" target="_blank">Electric Vehicle Innovation</A> of ReVision Energy at (207) 494-4440.&nbsp;</P>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5724881
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5724881Tue, 06 Feb 2018 22:11:00 GMTSustaining Steward Spotlight: Cianbro (February 2018)<p><em><font style="font-size: 14px;">Content provided by Cianbro.</font></em></p>
<p><a href="http://www.cianbro.com/Home.aspx" target="_blank"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/Cianbro.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="262" height="48" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; display: block;"></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.cianbro.com" target="_blank">Cianbro</a> is one of the nation’s largest, most diverse, successful, 100-percent employee-owned (30th largest in the United States), open shop, construction and construction services companies. They are currently operating in five markets across more than 40 states and employ over 4,000 team members. Cianbro manages and self-performs work in five markets: Building; Oil, Gas &amp; Chemical; Infrastructure; Power &amp; Energy; and Industrial &amp; Manufacturing.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>The firm safely and efficiently plans, manages, and constructs many technically complex, historical, and environmentally sensitive projects for a wide variety of public and private clients. Cianbro’s total commitment to safety is enthusiastically supported by its team members, and the organization has been named the <em>Healthiest and Safest Company in America</em> by the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine. Cianbro and its team members have been nationally recognized as the Contractor of the Year by the Associated Builders and Contractors of America, and has also received awards for Excellence in Construction, Outstanding Civil Engineering Achievement, and Engineering Excellence. The firm was ranked 103rd on the list of the Top 400 Contractors in America in 2017, tabulated by Engineering News-Record (ENR) based on contracting revenue.</p>
<p>Cianbro has a long history of completing projects that support energy and environmental sectors in Maine and around the nation. A segment of the company’s large workforce focuses on building and maintaining Maine’s bulk transmission, substations, and distribution for all major utilities in the region, in an environmentally stringent manner. Cianbro has completed projects in many of Maine’s hydropower generation facilities in order to improve operational efficiency and lessen environmental impacts, e.g. the construction of fish lifts and the rehabilitation of turbines and generators. The company is also the constructor for some of Maine’s most challenging wind and solar power projects; the most recent example being the completion and commissioning of the largest solar producing energy facility in Maine and within the jurisdiction of ISO New England.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Pittsfield Solar Project consists of 40,300 solar panels erected on 57 acres of a 115-acre parcel owned by Cianbro off Route 2 in Pittsfield. The Pittsfield Solar Project has the capacity to send up to 9.9 megawatts of AC electricity to the grid, enough to supply 6,500 homes at peak generation. Cianbro submitted its application for the solar facility to the Maine Public Utilities Commission in the autumn of 2015 under the PUC’s Community Based Renewables Energy Program. Following the award, Cianbro crews broke ground for the facility at the beginning of August in 2017. The Pittsfield Solar Project went online, producing energy commercially, on December 23rd of 2017 – a rapid five-month completion.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Cianbro is an E2Tech Sustaining Steward and Chad Allen is a Member of the E2Tech Board of Directors.&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p><strong>To learn more about the E2Tech Sustaining Partner program, visit our</strong> <a href="https://e2tech.org/membership"><strong>membership page</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p>
<p><br></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5724879
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5724879Tue, 06 Feb 2018 21:17:33 GMTMTI First Lightning Round Winners Announced (February 2018)<p><a href="https://www.mainetechnology.org" target="_blank"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/MTI%20trans.png" alt="" title="" border="0" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; display: block;"></a></p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.mainetechnology.org" target="_blank">Maine Technology Institute</a> (MTI) closed the Lightning Round of the Maine Technology Asset Fund 2.0 (MTAF 2.0) in December. MTI accepted applications in the form of a 10-slide pitch deck from October 2 through December 8, 2017. They received 183 proposals seeking a total of $381 million in funding. Maine voters approved $45 million in general fund bond dollars in June 2017 to fund the MTAF 2.0 program.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Companies from all parts of Maine, out-of-state, and out-of-country applied to the MTAF 2.0 program seeking individual funding requests between $18,000 to $45 million. These funds are to support R&amp;D infrastructure, equipment, and technology investments in one or more of Maine’s seven technology sectors.&nbsp;</p>
<p>MTI awarded funding to Vets First Choice; C &amp; L Aerospace Holdings, LLC; Good To-Go, LLC; Hyperlite Mountain Gear; and The Jackson Laboratory from the first Lightning Round application pool for a combined $24.4 million. A second Lightning Round will be announced by MTI to award the remaining $20.5 million.&nbsp;</p>
<p><br></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5724695
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5724695Fri, 08 Dec 2017 13:01:50 GMTE2Tech Leadership Transition Announcement (December 2017)<p align="center"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/JMarks_Headshot_1.jpg" alt="" title="" border="0" width="122" height="184"><br></p>
<p>Jeff Marks, Executive Director of E2Tech, will leave the organization he has led for five and a half years to pursue service and volunteer work abroad. His final day with E2Tech is December 31st.&nbsp;<br></p>
<p>Jeff came to E2Tech in July of 2012 after a career in government relations and policy work in California, Washington D.C., and Maine. Jeff helped the organization grow operationally and financially,&nbsp;landing grants and leading special projects that allowed E2Tech to promote and support the energy and environmental sector in Maine, as well as increase its presence among entrepreneurs, creatives, businesses, activists, and state, regional, and federal representatives.</p>
<p>Melissa Winne, current Project Director of E2Tech, will be stepping in as Interim Director and will maintain the organization’s momentum as we search for a new Executive Director.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Jeff is eager to follow his passion for environmental service and was given a unique opportunity to travel overseas and volunteer with an animal and wildlife rescue operation. He is proud of his time with E2Tech, stating, “E2Tech is an incredible network of private, public, and non-profit leaders on the cutting edge of the environmental, energy, and cleantech sectors.&nbsp; If not for this new opportunity, I would love to continue working with the dedicated individuals who bring innovation and progress to this community. I want to thank E2Tech’s staff and Board of Directors and all E2Tech members and partners for positioning us as a leading Northeastern business and economic development organization.”</p>
<p>Patrick Coughlin, Principal and Director of Engineering and Sentry EHS at St. Germain Collins, and Chair of the E2Tech Board of Directors remarked, “This organization’s success has come from the hard work and dedication of the staff, volunteers, and the Board. Thanks to Jeff for elevating E2Tech to the professional organization it is today!”</p>
<p>E2Tech is engaged in several projects that will achieve long-term benefits for Maine.&nbsp; Its educational and networking activities in 2018 will continue to promote business development, sustainable job growth, and sound public policy.</p>
<p>Please join us in thanking Jeff for his dedication and leadership throughout his tenure with E2Tech at our December 14<sup>th</sup> Winter Networking Reception at Cloudport in Portland. We look forward to hearing about his new adventures!</p>
<p><br></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5620472
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5620472Mon, 04 Dec 2017 20:35:53 GMTClimate Change - Global Problem, National Stagnation, Local Impacts (December 2017)<p><strong>On the International Stage:</strong> In early November, the United States became the only country unwilling to participate in the Paris Climate Agreement, after Syria pledged to join. At the U.N. climate summit in Bonn, Germany, the official U.S. formal delegation declined to participate except to speak about the role clean coal, natural gas, and nuclear energy will play in reducing future carbon emissions. A second U.S. delegation of businesses, governors, and mayors of major cities also attended and described their plans to meet the U.S. Paris Agreement target of 26-28% reduction on their own. Fourteen states have joined the U.S. Climate Alliance (USCA) as a commitment to uphold the Paris Agreement on their own. Other states and cities have pledged support for the Paris Agreement but have not joined the USCA.&nbsp;</p>
<p>After three years of stable world carbon emissions, 2017 levels are expected to rise by 2%. While emissions from European countries and the U.S. are expected to be lower than previous years, emissions from the rest of the world, especially China and India, are expected to be higher.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>On the National Stage:</strong> On October 10, EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to repeal the Clean Power Plan. The EPA held its only scheduled public meetings on November 28 and 29 in Charleston, West Virginia – coal country! <a href="https://www.epa.gov/stationary-sources-air-pollution/clean-power-plan-proposed-repeal-how-comment" target="_blank">Written public comments</a> will be accepted until January 16, 2018.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In our August newsletter, we wrote about the leaked <em>Climate Science Special Report</em> draft. Thirteen Federal Agencies released the final version in November, which is Volume I of the Fourth National Climate Assessment. <em>Climate Change Impacts, Risks and Adaptation in the United States</em> is Volume II of the Fourth National Climate Assessment and is scheduled for release in late 2018. Volume II will analyze the impacts to the nation’s resources (forests, freshwater, saltwater, soil, air, etc.), sectors (energy, transportation, infrastructure, health, etc.), and systems. Volume II will also provide regional analyses, risk assessment, and impact responses and adaptations. The <a href="https://review.globalchange.gov/">public comment period</a> for Volume II is open until January 31, 2018. A related report, <em>Second State of the Carbon Cycle Report</em>, reviews U.S. and North American carbon sources and sinks and their respective impacts to global carbon amounts and managed and unmanaged systems. The <em>Second State of the Carbon Cycle Report</em> is also <a href="https://review.globalchange.gov/">available for public comment</a> until January 8, 2018.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>On the State Stage:</strong> Maine is already starting to show signs of climate change:</p>
<ul>
<li>Warmer falls and winters are allowing ticks to stay active longer, reducing the moose population and increasing human cases of tick-borne diseases, such as Lyme and anaplasmosis.</li>
<li>Some invasive forest pests, like the hemlock woolly adelgid, were contained by Maine’s colder winters but are now expanding their range.&nbsp;</li>
<li>The Gulf of Maine is getting warmer and more acidic, impacting shellfish larvae habitat and shell development, reducing suitable groundfish habitat, and becoming more hospitable for non-native species.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Over a 100-year period, sea level has increased by 0.6 feet in the Portland area, while Eastport’s sea level has increased by 0.7 feet.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5612595
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5612595Mon, 04 Dec 2017 20:34:03 GMTMaine's 128th Legislative Session - Year 2 Outlook (December 2017)<p>Maine's first year of a two-year 128th Legislative Session closed in August with a slate of energy and environmental bills passed, carried over, or dead!<br></p>
<p>More than 400 bills need action in the 128th Legislature 2nd session. Among them are 319 that were held over from the first session, 63 new bills approved for consideration by legislative leaders, and 41 bills submitted by Gov. Paul LePage.&nbsp;In a closely divided Legislature, several key lawmakers are running for governor, including the Senate President, Senate Majority Leader, and House Minority Leader. This political dynamic could spill over into deliberations over a number of controversial bills related to energy, criminal justice, health and human services, and taxes.</p>
<p>The 2<sup>nd</sup> session is scheduled to begin on&nbsp;Jan. 3&nbsp;and conclude on&nbsp;April 18.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Some Energy &amp; Environmental Bills Carried Over Include:</p>
<ul>
<li>LD 131 An Act to Protect the Biomass Industry</li>
<li>LD 257 An Act to Enable Municipalities Working with Utilities to Establish Microgrids</li>
<li>LD 260 An Act to Create the Maine Energy Office</li>
<li>LD467 An Act to Authorize a General Fund Bond Issue to Address Changes in Sea Level</li>
<li>LD 532 An Act to Remove the 100-megawatt Limit on Hydroelectric Generators under the Renewable Resources Laws</li>
<li>LD 656 An Act to Improve the Ability of Maine Companies to Manufacture and Market Bioplastics</li>
<li>LD 1095 An Act to Establish the Maine Coastal Risks and Hazards Commission</li>
<li>LD 1248 An Act to Improve Public Transportation in Maine</li>
<li>LD 1373 An Act to Protect and Expand Access to Solar Power in Maine</li>
<li>LD 1444 An Act Regarding Large-scale Community Solar Procurement</li>
<li>LD 1487 An Act to Control Transmission Costs through the Development of Nontransmission Alternatives</li>
<li>LD 1515 An Act to Reduce Electric Rates for Maine Businesses by Amending the Laws Governing Spending from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative Trust Fund</li>
<li>LD 1632 An Act to Establish the Manufacturing Jobs Energy Program</li>
</ul>
<p><br></p>
<p>New Energy &amp; Environmental Bills for the Second Session Include:</p>
<ul>
<li>LR 2474 An Act Regarding a Biomass-generated Energy Purchase and Sale Agreement and Payments to Contractors</li>
<li>LR 2584 An Act to Eliminate Gross Metering for Energy Generation</li>
<li>LR 2594 An Act to Revise the Renewable Portfolio Standard Laws to Require Certain Hydropower Facilities to Qualify as Class I Resources</li>
<li>LR 2603 An Act to Protect the Right to Self-generate Electricity</li>
<li>LR 2608 Resolve, Establishing the Commission to Study the Economic, Environmental and Energy Benefits of Energy Storage to the Maine Electricity Industry</li>
<li>LR 2626 Resolve, To Join the International Alliance to Combat Ocean Acidification&nbsp;</li>
<li>LR 2634 An Act to Ensure Equity in the Funding of Maine’s Transportation Infrastructure by Imposing an Annual Fee on Hybrid and Electric Vehicles&nbsp;</li>
<li>LR 2712 An Act to Allow Hydropower Facilities to Sell Power Directly to Rural Manufacturing and Industrial Sites</li>
<li>LR 2736 An Act to Update the Allowance Budget for the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative</li>
<li>LR 2786 An Act to Protect Maine Residents and Businesses from Rising Electricity Costs</li>
</ul>
<p><br></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5612617
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5612617Mon, 04 Dec 2017 20:32:00 GMTE2Tech Elects Three New and Reinstates Seven Existing Board Members (December 2017)<p>E2Tech approved term extensions for seven of its 24-Member Board of Directors and elected three new Members at its November 16, 2017 Annual Meeting during the Expo in Portland. The ten Directors’ experiences are diverse and span the electricity, energy law, wind and solar, construction, project management, hydrokinetics, data security, and environmental law and consulting fields in Maine. We are excited to welcome (and welcome back) all of these dedicated individuals as a vital part of our organization!</p>
<p><strong><img src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAP///wAAACH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAICRAEAOw==" class="WaContentDivider WaContentDivider divider_style_border_solid" style="border-top-width: 1px;" data-wacomponenttype="ContentDivider"></strong></p>
<p><strong>New E2Tech Board Members</strong></p>
<p align="left"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/Laney%20Brown.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="94" height="146"><br></p>
<p><strong><span>Laney Brown</span> <em>– Vice President, Concentric Energy Advisors<br></em></strong>At Concentric Energy Advisors, Laney works with clients to provide guidance and strategy on the changing energy industry. She is an expert in distributed generation, smart grids, and regulatory policy and is a member of NY State Energy R&amp;D Agency’s Grid Modernization Advisory Committee and the US Department of Energy’s Electricity Advisory Committee.&nbsp;</p>
<p><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/Sarah%20Tracey.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="130" height="149"><br></p>
<p><strong><span>Sarah Tracy</span> <em>– Partner, Pierce Atwood (Chair, Program Committee)<br></em></strong>Sarah’s practice focuses primarily on electric and natural gas proceedings before state and federal entities, including state public utility commissions and state and federal courts. Sarah also negotiates and drafts agreements for the purchase of electric energy, capacity and renewable energy credits, as well as long-term contracts for natural gas supply and distribution service.</p>
<p><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/Paul%20Williamson.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="118" height="118"><br></p>
<p><strong><span>Paul Williamson</span> <em>– Development Manager, Apex Clean Energy<br></em></strong>Paul manages Apex Clean Energy’s wind and solar energy generation projects in Maine through Downeast Wind. Apex Clean Energy has more than 60 projects in development in 20 states in addition to seven operational wind farms.&nbsp;</p><img src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAP///wAAACH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAICRAEAOw==" class="WaContentDivider WaContentDivider divider_style_border_solid" style="border-top-width: 1px;" data-wacomponenttype="ContentDivider">
<p><strong>Returning Board Members</strong></p>
<p><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/Chad%20Allen.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="104" height="135"><br></p>
<p><strong><span>Chad Allen</span> <em>– Senior Project Engineer, Cianbro</em></strong>&nbsp;<br>
Chad’s work at Cianbro includes supporting the growth of wind energy, biomass, and conventional power generation in the Northeast.&nbsp;</p>
<p><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/David%20Ertz.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="93" height="118"><br></p>
<p><strong><span>David Ertz</span> <em>– Senior Consultant, DBE Consulting</em></strong>&nbsp;<br>
David provides construction, contract, and project management expertise to renewable energy projects.&nbsp;</p>
<p><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/John%20Ferland.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="108" height="142"><br></p>
<p><strong><span>John Ferland</span> <em>– President and Chief Operating Officer, Ocean Renewable Power Company (Board Secretary &amp; Chair, Strategic Planning Committee)</em></strong><br>
John leads ORPC’s project development, environmental permitting, and project licensing activities. He has over 30 years of experience in commercialization strategy for renewable energy companies, coastal resource management, and public policy.&nbsp;</p>
<p><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/Jim%20Katsiaficas.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="142" height="171"><br></p>
<p><strong><span>Jim Katsiaficas</span> <em>– Director, Perkins Thompson</em></strong>&nbsp;<br>
Jim advises public and private clients in the areas of municipal, land use, zoning and planning, environmental, and administrative law. His environmental work has included waste-to-energy facility, and water and sewer district representation; municipal landfill, uncontrolled hazardous substance site, and Superfund site closures; and the establishment of the governance structure for and representation of the Long Creek Watershed Management District.&nbsp;</p>
<p><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/Becky%20Metivier.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="139" height="139"><br></p>
<p><strong><span>Becky Metivier</span> <em>– Marketing Manager, Sage Data Security (Chair, Marketing &amp; Membership Committee)<br></em></strong>Becky has provided marketing services for several local Maine environmental companies before joining Sage Data Security as their marketing manager.&nbsp;</p>
<p><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/Jeffrey%20Thaler.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="99" height="127"><br></p>
<p><strong><span>Jeffrey Thaler</span> <em>– Professor of Energy Policy, Law &amp; Ethics, Assistant University Council, University of Maine<br></em></strong>Jeff is the University of Maine’s first Visiting Professor of Energy Policy, Law &amp; Ethics and also serves as Assistant University Counsel for environmental, energy, and sustainability projects and initiatives. He has been permitting counsel for on- and off-shore wind projects, hydro power, and wood-to-biofuel facilities.&nbsp;</p>
<p><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/Sarah%20Watts.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="95" height="123"><br></p>
<p><strong><span>Sarah Watts</span> <em>– Managing Environmental Scientist and Operations Manager, Tetra Tech<br></em></strong>Sarah has worked professionally in Maine as an environmental consultant since 2000. At Tetra Tech, Sarah oversees a group of 20 biologists, natural resource scientists, and planners, who primarily support project work in renewable and conventional energy generation and transmission.&nbsp;</p><img src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAP///wAAACH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAICRAEAOw==" class="WaContentDivider WaContentDivider divider_style_border_solid" style="border-top-width: 1px;" data-wacomponenttype="ContentDivider">
<p><em>The Environmental &amp; Energy Technology Council of Maine (E2Tech) is the state’s only energy, environmental, and clean technology business and economic development organization. E2Tech is a catalyst, a change agent, and a resource center that strives to promote Maine companies, support their robust and sustainable acceleration, and help them compete in national and global markets. E2Tech members include electric utilities and renewable energy companies, manufacturers, environmental engineers, emerging entrepreneurs, innovators and designers, as well as government agencies, educational institutions, and non-profits. For more information, please visit</em> <a href="https://e2tech.org/"><em>http://www.e2tech.org</em></a><em>.&nbsp;</em></p>
<p><br></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5620702
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5620702Mon, 04 Dec 2017 20:28:07 GMTSustaining Steward Spotlight: ReVision Energy (December 2017)<p align="center" style="background-color: transparent;"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/ReVisionEnergy_logo_trans_Oct2016_small.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="100" height="100"><br></p>
<p style="background-color: transparent;"><strong>Maine Company Accelerates Clean Energy Transition &amp; Rapidly Grows Jobs</strong></p>
<p style=""><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><font color="#222222" face="arial, sans-serif"><em>Content provided by ReVision Energy</em></font></span></p>
<p style="background-color: transparent;">As storms intensify and utility grid vulnerability increases, it's very good news that one of the first renewable energy microgrids in our region is being built at Brunswick Landing, powered by a massive solar array and anaerobic digester that converts agricultural waste into clean-burning fuel. Combining large-scale renewable energy with battery storage, heat pumps, LEDs and electric vehicle charging, the microgrid project is a community-scale, self-contained energy island emerging on the grounds of the former Naval Air Station that will provide greater energy resiliency and independence at lower cost than traditional energy sources.</p>
<p style="background-color: transparent;">Portland-based ReVision Energy is leading the microgrid project as part of its mission to help northern New England transition from a fossil fuel based economy to a sustainable renewable energy based economy. "Every year Mainers export $5 billion from the local economy to import fossil fuels from away," said Phil Coupe, a co-founder of ReVision. "Every time we build a solar energy system here at home, it helps plug that massive hole in Maine's fiscal boat by keeping our energy dollars in the local economy."</p>
<p style="background-color: transparent;">Since 2003 the company has grown from two guys in a garage in Liberty, ME to more than 200 employees in five locations in ME, NH and MA as more people and organizations invest in solar combined with hyper efficient, electric powered appliances to drastically reduce fuel consumption and carbon pollution. Two key factors are driving the company's growth, said Coupe:</p>
<p style="background-color: transparent;">1. The cost of solar technology has dropped by more than 75% over the past 10 years, and batteries are headed in the same direction.</p>
<p style="background-color: transparent;">2. Rapidly growing concern that 7 billion people burning fossil fuels in a closed atmosphere is utterly unsustainable as global energy demand is expected to grow 28% as population rises to 10 billion by 2050.</p>
<p style="background-color: transparent;">"Solar electricity has become cost-competitive with traditional sources of energy and this is a game-changing tipping point that is accelerating the clean energy transition" said Coupe. Modern solar technology comes with a 25-year warranty and 40-year expected useful lifespan, making it an attractive investment option because it is one of the few building upgrades that can be done cash flow neutral as the revenue stream of electricity generated by solar pays for the initial capital cost over time.</p>
<p style="background-color: transparent;">Maine's abundant solar resource, which is equal to that of Houston, TX and only 10% less than Florida's, delivers a strong economic and environmental return on solar energy projects that are being used to power homes, commercial buildings, schools and municipalities. A recent installation of 3,000 solar electric panels atop South Portland's capped landfill is powering 12% of the city's buildings while saving taxpayers thousands of dollars in utility costs and reducing carbon pollution from regional fossil fuel power plants.</p>
<p style="background-color: transparent;">In addition to helping Mainers save money and protect the environment, ReVision Energy is working with a wide range of non profits and schools to solve problems beyond over-reliance on fossil fuels. In 2015 ReVision became a certified B-Corp, which means that the business is being operated with a goal of creating maximum positive societal impact rather than the traditional approach of maximizing shareholder returns. "The positive feedback from employees and customers has been astounding--converting to a B-Corp may have been one of the single best business decisions we've ever made," said Coupe. In October 2017 ReVision converted to a 100% employee-owned company as a way to share the company's financial success with the people working hard to make it happen.</p>
<p style="background-color: transparent;">Consistently recognized as one of Maine's Best Places to Work, ReVision Energy has also built a sterling reputation for high quality installations and customer service, culminating in being named the #1 Rooftop Solar Contractor in New England by Solar Power Industry magazine.</p>
<p style="background-color: transparent;">This holiday season ReVision Energy is partnering with a nationwide solar coop and a disaster relief agency to build portable emergency power units for the hardest hit areas of Puerto Rico in the wake of Hurricane Maria. The first 10 solar-powered trailers destined for Puerto Rico will be built at ReVision's newest 'decarbonization facility' in N. Andover, MA where volunteers will install solar panels, batteries, lights, power outlets and water purification systems. Once completed in the next month or two, the trailers will be shipped to Puerto Rico and then towed by SUV's to remote areas that have been without utility power and clean water for more than two months.</p>
<p style="background-color: transparent;">"Our goal is to alleviate some of the massive human suffering that is taking place in Puerto Rico," said Coupe. "With more than 50% of the island still without power, it's going to take many months for people to get back on their feet and resume some semblance of normal living."</p>
<p style="background-color: transparent;"><strong>ReVision Energy is an E2Tech Sustaining Steward and Phil Coupe is a Member of the E2Tech Board of Directors.</strong></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5612597
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5612597Mon, 04 Dec 2017 20:27:57 GMTEnergy And Environmental Briefs (December 2017)<P><STRONG>CHP in Maine.</STRONG> The U.S. Department of Energy has selected the University of Maine to lead one of eight regional partnerships dedicated to the promotion, technical support, and deployment of cost-effective and highly efficient combined heat and power (CHP) technologies throughout the nation. UMaine, in partnership with the University of New Hampshire and Watson Strategy Group, will oversee the CHP Technical Assistance Partnership (TAP) center in the northeast region, including Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.</P>
<P><STRONG>Microgrids in Maine.</STRONG> A recent devastating wind storm swept through Maine with 80 mph wind gusts and cut out power for more than a half million Mainers, earning it the distinction of being the largest power outage in Maine history.&nbsp; Other states are working on creating more reliability and resilient electricity grids.&nbsp; The Energy, Utilities, and Technology Committee is holding meetings on LD 257, which seeks to promote and incorporate microgrids and other innovative energy technologies.</P>
<P><STRONG>Heating Oil in Maine.</STRONG> Maine’s winter heating season is in full swing and heating oil, kerosene, and propane prices are climbing.&nbsp; Watch the <A href="http://www.maine.gov/energy/fuel_prices/">Maine Governor’s Energy Office website</A> for changes in fuel prices through March 2018.</P>
<P><STRONG>EVs in Maine.</STRONG> Electric charging stations are popping up all over Maine, including recent installations at E2Tech Members LL Bean and Hannaford. Now, you can charge up while you wind down at Flight Deck Brewing in Brunswick. Tesla installed three charging stations at the brewery at Brunswick Landing, joining solar and an anaerobic digester as components of a burgeoning renewable energy center at Brunswick Landing.</P>
<P><STRONG>Environmental Excellence in Maine.</STRONG> Governor Paul R. LePage and the Maine Department of Environmental Protection announced the recipients of the 2017 Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence. The awards recognize businesses, public entities, and individuals for their extraordinary efforts to protect and improve Maine’s environment. E2Tech congratulates Pratt &amp; Whitney and the City of Brewer for their awards, but sends a special shout-out to E2Tech co-founder and former Board Member James Atwell, Retired Senior Project Manager – Sevee &amp; Maher Engineers. Inc. Throughout his 50-year career as a civil and environmental engineer, Jim has used his professional skills to make Maine a better place to work and live.&nbsp;</P>
<P><STRONG>Governor's Energy Bill.</STRONG> The Governor's Technical Energy Advisor, Jim LaBrecque, announced on a radio show that the&nbsp;Governor is working on an energy bill for the upcoming legislative session to reduce oil use, decrease heating and transportation costs, and reduce CO2 through "real time pricing".&nbsp;</P>
<P><STRONG>PUC Delays Solar Net Metering Change.</STRONG> The Maine Public Utilities Commission has decided to delay for four months the solar power net energy billing (aka net metering) rule that would gradually reduce the amount of credit for solar energy until the end of April 2018. The rule was originally slated to go into effect on January 1, 2018.&nbsp;</P>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5612636
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5612636Mon, 04 Dec 2017 19:50:00 GMTSpeakers, Sponsors, Exhibitors, Oh My! 2017 E2Tech Expo (December 2017)<p align="center"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/E2TechEXPO2017.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="122" height="68"><br></p>
<p>E2Tech’s third annual Expo occurred on Thursday, November 16. This year’s Expo engaged private, public, and nonprofit stakeholders to help other organizations access the resources they need to promote their products, services, and technologies; accelerate their growth; compete in national and international markets; support a robust and innovative state environmental and energy market and workforce; and make Maine an innovation hub to start and grow a business. More than 350 people attended the Expo, in addition to our 30 speakers, 18 event sponsors, and 20 exhibitors. If you happened to miss a presenter or wanted to review a point spoken during the day, you can watch a recording of the Expo or review a specific presenter’s presentation on the <a href="https://e2tech.org/event-2671488" target="_blank">Expo webpage.</a>&nbsp;</p>
<p>E2Tech would like to thank everyone who attended, presented, sponsored, and exhibited at the 2017 Expo.</p>
<p><br></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5613564
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5613564Fri, 03 Nov 2017 13:44:12 GMTE2Tech Expo 2017-Register Today for Nov. 16 Event! (November 2017)<p align="center"><a href="https://e2tech.org/event-2671488" target="_blank"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/E2TechEXPO2017.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="122" height="68"></a><br></p>
<p>On November 16, the third annual E2TECH EXPO will be the premier environmental and energy event of the year, focused on innovation and business development! Investors and funders, policymakers, energy and environmental companies, and other innovation “enablers” are on tap to help attendees connect to what they need to grow and prosper – money, clients/customers, talent, public policy.</p>
<p>E2Tech Expo 2017 will engage private, public, and non-profit stakeholders to help any size company or organization access the resources they need to:</p>
<ol>
<li>Promote their products, services, and technologies;</li>
<li>Accelerate their growth;</li>
<li>Compete in national and global markets;</li>
<li>Support a robust and innovative state environmental and energy market and workforce; and</li>
<li>Make Maine an innovation hub to start and grow a business.</li>
</ol>
<p>Don't miss out on valuable networking and the chance to learn more about the critical resources available to the energy, environmental, and cleantech sectors.&nbsp; Please visit <a href="https://e2tech.org/Expo2017"><strong>http://www.e2tech.org/Expo2017</strong></a> for registration, sponsorship, and agenda information.</p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5515620
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5515620Fri, 03 Nov 2017 13:43:40 GMTE4TheFuture President Stephen Cowell to Keynote E2Tech Expo 2017 (November 2017)<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><a href="https://e2tech.org/event-2671488" target="_blank"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/E2TechEXPO2017.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="122" height="68"></a><br></font></p>
<p>Energy efficiency does more than cut waste, combat climate change, and save money. It employs 1.9 million Americans, by far the largest sector in the U.S. clean economy. <a href="https://e4thefuture.org/">E4TheFuture</a> collaborates with industry stakeholders to provide expert policy solutions, education, and advocacy with a pragmatic focus. They develop and advocate for federal, state, and local policy strategies by leveraging the four “E’s”:</p>
<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><a href="https://e4thefuture.org/" target="_blank"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/E4TheFuture_Logo%20-%20FOR%20WEBSITE%20-%20RGB.jpg" alt="" title="" border="0" width="245" height="83"></a><br></font></p>
<ul>
<li>Energy-Promoting clean, efficient, safe solutions</li>
<li>Economy-Growing a prosperous, low-carbon economy for the 22<sup>nd</sup> Century</li>
<li>Equity-Empowering all Americans to run their homes with clean, affordable energy</li>
<li>Environment-Restoring healthy air, water, and land</li>
</ul>
<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/steve-cowell.jpg" alt="" title="" border="0" width="160" height="155"><br></font></p>
<p>Stephen Cowell has dedicated his career to achieving a strong and prosperous U.S. clean energy economy. He is an entrepreneur who has founded and directed several energy efficiency and renewable energy organizations, including Conservation Services Group (CSG) in 1984. Under Cowell’s leadership, CSG designed and implemented conservation and renewable energy programs for utilities, state agencies, and other entities nationwide, ultimately providing services to more than 3.2 million businesses and households. He helped to create and build the residential energy efficiency industry through sound public policy, legislation, and establishment of trade ally networks as well as delivery of cost-effective programs. In September 2017, Steve was honored by the Northeast Clean Energy Council (NECEC) with their <a href="http://www.necec.org/greentiegala.html">Decade of Influence Award</a>!</p>
<p>Please visit&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://e2tech.org/Expo2017" target="_blank">http://www.e2tech.org/Expo2017</a></strong> for registration, sponsorship, and agenda information.</p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5515401
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5515401Fri, 03 Nov 2017 13:34:12 GMTExpo Commercialization Sponsor: Maine Technology Institute (MTI) (November 2017)<p align="center"><a href="https://e2tech.org/event-2671488" target="_blank"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/E2TechEXPO2017.png" width="122" height="68" border="0" alt=""></a></p>
<p align="center">&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mainetechnology.org/" target="_blank"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/MTI-logo-FINAL-COLOR-with-tag%20trans.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="245" height="136"></a><br></p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.mainetechnology.org/">Maine Technology Institute</a> works with entrepreneurs, innovators, mature businesses, and institutions to move from the research and development phase to commercialization by providing funding, networking, and other opportunities. The Maine State Legislature established MTI in 1999 to support, promote, and stimulate technology research and development efforts leading to commercialization. Since MTI’s establishment, they have invested $180 million into 2,000 projects statewide while generating $900 million in matching private sector investments. They are <a href="https://www.mainetechnology.org/program/maine-technology-asset-fund-2-0/">currently accepting applications</a> from Maine companies looking to invest in research and development equipment, infrastructure, and technology as part of a $45 million Maine Technology Asset Fund 2.0 (MTAF 2.0) program. E2Tech has funding for grant writing support, including for MTAF 2.0. Contact Jeff Marks, jeffmarks@e2tech.org, if you are interested.&nbsp;</p>
<p>We greatly appreciate MTI's sponsorship of our Expo and continued support of E2Tech!</p>
<p>Please visit <a href="https://e2tech.org/Expo2017"><strong>http://www.e2tech.org/Expo2017</strong></a> for registration, sponsorship, and agenda information.</p>
<p><br></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5515548
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5515548Fri, 03 Nov 2017 13:23:58 GMTShow Me How This Thing Works! Plenary Panel (November 2017)<p align="center"><a href="https://e2tech.org/event-2671488" target="_blank"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/E2TechEXPO2017.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="122" height="68" style="left: 184px; top: 0px; width: 122px; height: 68px;"></a><br></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">On the global level, 28 of the world's wealthiest investors simultaneously launched an initiative - the Breakthrough Energy Coalition - committing to investing billions of dollars in private sector capital in early-stage technologies relating to power generation and storage, transportation, industrial use, agriculture, and efficiency improvements. While this initiative presents an unprecedented opportunity to transport the way we generate, store, and use energy, Maine has more limited options.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">Lynn Abramson from Washington, DC based Clean Energy Business Network will lead a conversation with MTI, Maine Accelerates Growth, UMaine, and CEI about what we can do in Maine to demonstrate leadership and support of the entrepreneurial&nbsp;spirit to develop next-generation technologies. Importance will be placed on how to best use public sector funding to leverage private sector investments in energy and environmental R&amp;D. The role of the Federal and State governments in providing limited R&amp;D dollars to startups in the energy and environmental sector will be discussed. Lastly, the speakers will deliberate on how can we develop private-public partnerships to harness the enormous potential to convert our natural resources to economic and business development opportunities.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">Please visit for&nbsp;<a href="https://e2tech.org/Expo2017" target="_blank"><strong>http://www.e2tech.org/Expo2017</strong></a> registration, sponsorship, and agenda information.&nbsp;</font></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5514736
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5514736Fri, 03 Nov 2017 13:22:24 GMTE2Tech Talks Focusing on Maine's Innovation & Entrepreneurial Community (November 2017)<p align="center"><a href="https://e2tech.org/event-2671488" target="_blank"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/E2TechEXPO2017.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="122" height="68"></a><br></p>
<p>You don't want to miss out on our third annual E2Tech Talks! Speakers will present in a TED Talk-style format, providing a quick 7-minute discussion on their experiences, innovations, technologies, and challenges in making the world cleaner, smarter, and more productive and sustainable. E2Tech works hard to support Maine's energy and environmental businesses and we are excited to provide them with a platform to celebrate their successes.</p>
<ul>
<li>Phil Coupe - Managing Partner, ReVision Energy</li>
<li>Bob Garver - Owner, Wicked Joe Organic Coffees</li>
<li>Susan McKay - CEO, Cerahelix</li>
<li>Jared Pinkham - COO, Grojo</li>
</ul>
<p>Past companies featured in this popular panel include:</p>
<ul>
<li>David Markley - Co-Founder, Surge Hydro</li>
<li>John Rooks - Co-Founder, President/CEO, Rapport</li>
<li>Tony Wood - Founder/CEO, F.E. Wood Natural Energy</li>
<li>Nadir Yildirim - President, Revolution Research</li>
<li>Drake Bell - Exeter AgriEnergy/Agri-Cycle Energy</li>
<li>Matt Jacobson - Executive Director, Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative</li>
<li>Tony Kieffer - Managing Director, Arch Solar</li>
</ul>
<p>Please visit <a href="https://e2tech.org/Expo2017">http://www.e2tech.org/Expo2017</a> for registration, sponsorship, and agenda information.</p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5515966
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5515966Fri, 03 Nov 2017 13:20:33 GMTIf I Had $1,000,000! Investment & Funding Opportunities: Expo Workshop #1 (November 2017)<p align="center"><a href="https://e2tech.org/event-2671488" target="_blank"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/E2TechEXPO2017.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="122" height="68"></a><br></p>
<p>Through the Maine Technology Asset Fund 2.0, the Maine Technology Institute (MTI) is responsible for soliciting proposals from Maine companies and organizations looking to make investments in R&amp;D equipment, infrastructure and technology upgrades to drive innovation in Maine. Applicants will participate in a competitive process and will need to show how the grant funding will help them gain and hold market share, increase revenues, and grow or preserve jobs for Maine people. Panelists will discuss the $50 million in funds available for investment, innovation, growth, and job creation.</p>
<p>Beyond MTAF 2.0, panelists will discuss other investment and funding resources in Maine for energy and environmental companies, non-profits, entrepreneurs, municipalities, and projects. They will also deliberate what investors are looking for in the energy and environmental sector. This will lead to thoughtful conversation on how to convert innovative ideas into cash for implementation.</p>
<p>Please visit <strong><a href="https://e2tech.org/Expo2017" target="_blank">http://www.e2tech.org/Expo2017</a></strong> for registration, sponsorship, and agenda information.</p>
<p><br></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5515261
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5515261Fri, 03 Nov 2017 13:10:39 GMTLawyers, Guns, and Money - Critical Business Development Resources: Expo Workshop #2 (November 2017)<p align="center"><a href="https://e2tech.org/event-2671488" target="_blank"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/E2TechEXPO2017.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="122" height="68"></a><br></p>
<p>Before they get stuck between the rock and the hard place, businesses need the right people on their team at all times. Whether a new entrepreneur, a small startup team, or a multi-national corporation, expertise in the following areas will help ensure success:</p>
<p>1. Accounting/Financial</p>
<p>2. Legal</p>
<p>3. Marketing</p>
<p>4. Product/Service/Technology</p>
<p>5. Talent/HR</p>
<p>6. Vision/Leadership</p>
<p>E2Tech Expo 2017 will have a session that brings service reps together to let attendees know how to find them (and others like them) and why you need them.</p>
<p>Please visit&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://e2tech.org/Expo2017" target="_blank">http://www.e2tech.org/Expo2017</a></strong> for registration, sponsorship, and agenda information.&nbsp;</p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5515193
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5515193Fri, 03 Nov 2017 12:46:56 GMTThe Times, They Are a-Changin': The Case for a New Innovation Policy (November 2017)<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma"><a href="https://e2tech.org/event-2671488" target="_blank"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/E2TechEXPO2017.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="122" height="68" style="left: 184px; top: 0px; width: 122px; height: 68px;"></a><br></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">While many politicians want to bring environmental and energy policy back to the Stone Age - or more specifically, the Coal Age - there is a case to be made for a new "Energy Innovation Policy" to encourage products and services to combat climate change, air and water pollution, and other environmental challenges. For example, alternative energy is an emerging sector of the Maine economy, made up of firms and organizations engaged in activities ranging from renewable energy production and generation to technology system distribution and installation to weatherization and efficient building construction and retrofits.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">The growing demand for energy resources, technologies, products, and services, as well as global efforts to combat climate change, provide opportunities for Maine's knowledge, skills, and capabilities. Steve McGrath, Governor LePage’s new Energy Director; Maine State Representative Martin Grohman; NECEC President Peter Rothstein; Innovation Policyworks CEO Cathy Renault; and Portland Press Herald Energy Reporter Tux Turkel will discuss how we make this case to Maine's legislators and administrators to use public policy to grow R&amp;D capacity, increase human capital, advance new technologies, open up new markets, and encourage enterprises to build on Maine's unique competitive assets.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">Please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://e2tech.org/Expo2017" target="_blank"><strong>http://www.e2tech.org/Expo2017</strong></a> for registration, sponsorship, and agenda information.&nbsp;</font></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5514851
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5514851Tue, 10 Oct 2017 17:23:39 GMTE2Tech Expo 2017 - Sponsors & Exhibitors, Step Right Up! (October 2017)<p align="center"><a href="https://e2tech.org/event-2671488"><font face="Tahoma"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/E2TechEXPO2017.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="250" height="140"></font></a></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">Come one, come all to E2Tech’s 3rd annual Expo on <strong>Thursday, November 16</strong> at the University of Southern Maine in Portland. This year the E2Tech Expo will engage private, public, and non-profit stakeholders to help both startups and mature, established companies access the resources they need to promote their products, services, and technologies; accelerate growth; compete in national and global markets; support a robust and innovative state environmental and energy market and workforce; and make Maine an innovation hub to start and grow a business. In the morning there will be time to network and grab some food before the E2Tech Annual Meeting, Keynote, and Plenary Panel. Lunch will provide another opportunity to network and explore the various event sponsor and exhibitor tables. In the afternoon, E2Tech Talks will focus on the Maine Innovation &amp; Entrepreneurial Community followed by workshops designed to match attendees with opportunities to prosper and grow. The event will wrap up with a happy-hour networking session.</font></p>
<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma"><strong>If you are interested in being an Expo Sponsor or Exhibitor, please visit<br>
<a href="https://e2tech.org/Expo2017">e2tech.org/Expo2017</a>&nbsp;and contact Jeff Marks at <a href="mailto:jeffmarks@e2tech.org">jeffmarks@e2tech.org</a>.&nbsp;</strong></font></p>
<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma"><strong>For more information about the event or to register,<br>
please visit&nbsp; the <a href="https://e2tech.org/event-2671488">2017 Expo Registration page</a>.</strong></font></p>
<p><br></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5307078
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5307078Melissa WinneTue, 10 Oct 2017 17:21:19 GMTStriking Oil...Dependency! (October 2017)<p><br></p>
<p align="center"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/Heating%20Consumption.png" width="490" height="264"><br></p>
<p align="left"><font face="Tahoma">In 2011, the Maine Legislature adopted a statutory goal to reduce oil use 30% by 2030. Maine consumes more heating oil per capita than any other state, making us susceptible to price volatility and fuel shortages. Mainers face many other heating issues, such as old, inefficient heating systems; poorly insulated and weatherized homes; and a long heating season. Maine is at a crossroads for heating and transportation energy policy, with some roads leading to long-term solutions and others accomplishing more short-term goals.</font><br></p>
<p align="left"><font face="Tahoma"><br></font></p>
<p align="center"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/Primary%20Heating.png" width="490" height="264"><font face="Tahoma"><br></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">Heating system ease of use and affordability are important considerations in developing a robust heating energy policy. Mainers, especially the growing elderly population, want their heating system to be simple and easy to use. They understandably do not want to carry fuel to their stoves, but instead want to set a thermostat and be comfortable all season long. For example, for wood pellets to be considered a viable heating option for homeowners, suppliers need to continue developing ways to make them more user-friendly. Pellet boilers with hopper-fed pellets are certainly a step in the right direction for this industry.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">Switching heating systems or even upgrading a system is often costly for the homeowner. Many Mainers are unable to afford to change their current heating system. However, financial assistance programs and additional education and outreach are options to more affordable heating.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">Having an easy and efficient system will not reduce one’s heating bill or reduce one’s fuel consumption if their house is poorly weatherized. Another Maine statutory goal is for 100% of homes and 50% of businesses to be weatherized by 2030. While this is an aggressive goal, weatherization assistance programs and policies are already in place to help reach it. New infrastructure, buildings, and heating systems may need to meet or exceed efficiency and weatherization standards and regulations to help reduce oil dependency and heating bills.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">As new technology is developed, and as more infrastructure is needed to accommodate the new technology and the increase in electrical demand, Maine will need an educated and trained workforce to meet this increased demand. And, as Mainers electrify their heating, Maine’s grid will need to be more resilient to ensure comfort and security year-round. Electric utilities will play a key role in ensuring heating electrification is done affordably, efficiently, and with transparency.</font></p>
<p align="center"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/Vehicle%20Consumption.png" width="490" height="249"><font face="Tahoma"><br></font></p>
<p align="left"><font face="Tahoma">Maine is a rural state, resulting in many vehicle miles traveled. Maine uses more energy per capita and motor fuel per capita for transportation than the United States average, which unsurprisingly, also results in higher transportation fuel expenditures. Just like heating, Mainers struggle with vehicle fuel price volatility. Reducing Maine’s oil dependency in the transportation sector involves Mainers moving more efficiently and increasing the use of alternative fuel vehicles. This can be challenging, as Maine is one of the least densely populated states in the country. Diminished housing affordability and availability can contribute to housing sprawl and strand workers and the elderly outside the reach of public transport and vital services. Increasing electric charging corridors, ride sharing programs, and public transportation routes are all potential options to deal with this issue while also reducing emissions.</font><br></p>
<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma"><br></font></p>
<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><strong style="">Transportation Energy Use Per Capita, Million Btu per capita, 2013<br>
(U.S. Department of Transportation)</strong></font></p>
<p align="center"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/Transportation%20Energy%20Use.png" width="440" height="126"></p>
<p align="center"><strong><font face="Tahoma"><font style="font-size: 12px;">Motor Fuel Use Per Capita, Gallons Per Capita, 2013<br>
(U.S. Department of Transportation)</font></font></strong></p>
<p align="center"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/Motor%20Fuel%20Use.png" style="font-size: 0.8em;" width="440" height="110"></p>
<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma">Want to learn more about <a href="https://e2tech.org/event-2669401"><strong>The Future of Fossil Fuels</strong></a> in Maine?<br>
Join E2Tech and the Governor's Energy Office on Thursday, October 19 from<br>
7:15 AM-12:00 PM at Maple Hill Farm Inn and Conference Center.</font><br></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5307112
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5307112Melissa WinneTue, 10 Oct 2017 17:14:22 GMTSustaining Partner Spotlight: Bernstein Shur (October 2017)<p align="center"><a href="http://www.bernsteinshur.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/BernsteinShur_OfficalLogo_trans_Nov2016.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="160" height="132" style=""></a><br></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma"><a href="http://www.bernsteinshur.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Bernstein Shur</strong></a> loves what they do and are passionate about every part of it. Their experienced, interdisciplinary energy practice helps clients throughout New England and around the world navigate every part of energy generation and distribution. As part of the legal team, they will ensure your energy project runs like a closed circuit: seamlessly, and with an uninterrupted flow. That way, when it’s finally time for you to flip the switch, everything just works.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">In response to the 1978 passage of PURPA, Maine began to restructure its energy markets. The origin of Bernstein Shur’s energy practice was in navigating through Maine’s restructuring process, as the market opened for independent generators to permit, build and operate generating facilities throughout the state.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">Since that time, they have represented almost every independent generator across the state, from hydro to biomass to waste-to-energy to wind to solar. They have always been on the cutting edge of energy issues in Maine, from the waste-to-energy facilities in the 1980s and 1990s, all the way to the present, in which their subsidiary successfully pairs fleets of vehicles with biogas throughout the country under the EPA’s RIN program, as their clients lead the nation in merchant transmission installations.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">While always looking to mitigate controversy, they specialize in highly controversial energy development projects – Maine has a unique political culture, and their lawyers, in addition to being technically proficient, focus on the practical, the cost-effective, and the human element of obtaining their clients’ goals. Having seen every possible type of objection to an energy project, they pride themselves on being adept at diffusing tension, creative problem solving, prioritizing legal issues, and being efficient with limited development dollars to achieve a financeable project.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">While Bernstein Shur will zealously defend their clients’ projects and priorities (and have successfully litigated on their behalf), they are, at their core, deal lawyers – they want to get your project a “yes” – from the public, from the regulators, from your vendors, your lenders, and your investors.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">In addition to subject matter expertise, they are experts in collaboration. Their level of experience affords them with close, positive, working relationships with in-house counsel, outside counsel, other local counsel, and consultants. In their team you will find a cohesive team of dedicated, fun individuals who love their particular role in Maine and New England’s energy markets.</font></p>
<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma"><strong>Bernstein Shur joined E2Tech as a <a href="https://e2tech.org/Sustaining-Partners">Sustaining Leader</a> in 2017.</strong></font></p>
<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma"><strong>Learn more about our <a href="https://e2tech.org/membership">Sustaining Partner Program</a>!</strong></font></p>
<p align="center"><br></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5307066
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5307066Melissa WinneTue, 10 Oct 2017 17:03:52 GMTDon't Forget! Lightning Round Grants Are Now Open! (October 2017)<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma"><a href="https://www.mainetechnology.org/" target="_blank"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/MTI-logo.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="170" height="87"></a><br></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">MTI is now accepting applications from Maine organizations looking to invest in R&amp;D equipment, infrastructure, and technology as part of a $45 million bond referendum. MTI plans to distribute about half of the funds through a series of Lightning Rounds before the end of 2017. Interested applicants must meet all program requirements, including being a Maine organization; providing at least a 1:1 cost share for the project; using the fund for infrastructure (capital construction, improvements, or equipment costs); be associated with research, development, and commercialization innovation; and be within or intersect with one or more of Maine's seven technology sectors. The application includes submitting a 10-slide project pitch deck to MTI's online portal. Slide decks will be accepted and considered monthly through December 8, 2017.&nbsp;</font></p>
<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma">For more information, please visit the <a href="https://www.mainetechnology.org/program/maine-technology-asset-fund-2-0/" target="_blank"><strong>MTI Website</strong></a>.</font></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5307064
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5307064Melissa WinneTue, 19 Sep 2017 12:54:35 GMTHurricane Season - Rising Waters & Rising Prices (September 2017)<p><br></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">The Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that Hurricane Harvey significantly disrupted the oil and petroleum product supply chains. Inputs to Gulf Coast refineries dropped by 34% between August 21 and September 1, 2017. Texas is home to 31% of the United States' refining capacity, supplying petroleum products to the Gulf Coast, East Coast, Midwest, and international markets. Hurricane Harvey caused many refineries in the region to reduce or shut down production. The Colonial Pipeline, which runs from Houston to New York Harbor and connects 29 refineries and 267 distribution terminals while carrying 2.5 million barrels per day of gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel, was forced to reduce shipping amounts and frequency due to low petroleum supplies. These disruptions caused gasoline drawdowns all along the East Coast and gasoline prices to increase. While gas prices typically rise for travel on Labor Day Weekend, the prices were exacerbated by Hurricane Harvey's impact to the supply chain.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma"><br></font></p>
<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/PADD3%20and%20PADD1.jpg" alt="" title="" border="0" width="640" height="396" style="max-width: none;"><br></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma"><br></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">Two weeks later, the disrupted supply chain hindered people trying to escape Hurricane Irma in Florida. Closed shipping ports led to fuel shortages and high gas prices which prevented many people from being able to smoothly evacuate from Irma's path. Even though the Secretary of Homeland Security waived the Jones Act temporarily allowing foreign-flag vessels to bring fuel from other eatern U.S. ports to South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, and Puerto Rico to reduce fuel shortages. At the height of Hurricane Irma, 59% of Florida customers experienced power outages.&nbsp;</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma"><br></font></p>
<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/PADD1C.jpg" alt="" title="" border="0" width="640" height="437" style="max-width: none;"><br></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma"><br></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma"><strong>How Did Climate Change Play a Role?</strong></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">While climate scientists and meteorologists are still running attribution studies to determine the level of impact greenhouse gases had on Hurricane Harvey and Irma, other factors can be assessed more easily. NASA and NOAA were both measuring the ocean temperature across the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico along the hurricane paths. Both bodies of water had surface temperatures of 30<font face="Tahoma, sans-serif">ºC/86<font face="Tahoma, sans-serif">ºF, which is warm enough to feed a category 5 hurricane. Hurricane Harvey made landfall as a category 4 hurricane, sustaining 130 mph winds, while Hurricane Irma broke the record for longest sustained category 5 winds (over 157mph) as it crossed the Caribbean islands, sustaining 185 mph winds.&nbsp;</font></font></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma"><font face="Tahoma, sans-serif"><font face="Tahoma, sans-serif">Hurricane Harvey's maximum storm surge was 12 feet above ground level, while other areas of South Texas experienced 3-6 feet storm surge. Southeast Texas experienced high levels of rain, with some areas getting over 40 inches within 48 hours. The maximum rainfall during Harvey was 51.88 inches, which broke the North American single rainfall event record.&nbsp;</font></font></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma"><font face="Tahoma, sans-serif"><font face="Tahoma, sans-serif">Hurricane Irma stretched from the east coast to the west coast of Florida, causing water to recede from the coast on the west, while causing an average 4 feet of storm surge on the southeast coast and seven feet of storm surge on the northeast coast. However, that storm surge is on top of the 10-12 inches of sea level rise along Florida's east coast in the last century, allowing additional areas to be flooded.</font></font></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma"><font face="Tahoma, sans-serif"><font face="Tahoma, sans-serif">Another record Hurricanes Harvey and Irma created was having two category 4 hurricanes make landfall in the United States in the same year. Only 27 category 4 or stronger hurricanes have been documented in the United States since 1851, including Harvey and Irma. Hurricane season begins June 1 and continues until November 30 each year, so there is still plenty of time for additional devastating hurricanes to hit. Axios is reporting estimates of Hurricane Harvey having caused between $65-$75 billion worth of damage, while Irma is estimated to have caused $50 billion, together totaling around $120 billion in hurricane damages for 2017 so far (this does not include damage estimates for Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands). When adjusted to today's prices, Hurricane Katrina (2005) is still the most expensive hurricane at $160 billion.&nbsp;</font></font></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma"><font face="Tahoma, sans-serif"><font face="Tahoma, sans-serif">While climate change may impact each hurricane differently, we can all be sure there will be more storms of Harvey and Irma's magnitude, with more records broken in the future as our climate systems continue to change. We can already see this occurring as Hurricane Maria is causing catastrophic damage to Puerto Rico and other Caribbean islands as a Category 5 hurricane, when just weeks prior they were hit with devastating Hurricane Irma, also a Category 5 hurricane. 2017 is the sixth year on record to have multiple category 5 hurricanes, with additional storms currently gaining strength in the Atlantic.</font></font></font></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5268404
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5268404Melissa WinneTue, 19 Sep 2017 12:00:00 GMTState Energy Roadmap: Energy Innovation (September 2017)<p><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><br></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Maine currently spends only about 1% of its total Gross Domestic Product (GDP) on research and development (R&amp;D), which ranks the State 37th nationally (Measures of Growth 2017). How can Maine increase its R&amp;D support and activity through growth and maintenance of its infrastructure, capacities, and resources? How do we ensure a reliable stream of public and private investment into R&amp;D generally, and "energy" R&amp;D specifically? How can Maine develop, attract, and retain a workforce with skills that match the needs of Maine's current and future employers? And, is there a role for the State Government to play in developing policies and programs that support R&amp;D, demonstration/pilot programs, and commercialization? These are some of the questions the Maine Governor's Energy Office (GEO) and E2Tech are grappling with as they develop a Maine Energy Planning Roadmap.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">The GEO is engaging private, public, and non-profit stakeholders to develop a Roadmap and has convened four Task Forces to help identify technology limitations, market barriers, and political and policy issues; develop action items and strategies to address these issues; and prioritize the most important actions to achieve the State of Maine's energy goals.&nbsp;</font></p>
<ol>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Energy Innovation</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Heating</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Policy Evaluation</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Transportation</font></li>
</ol>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><font>This is the first of a series of articles in Fall 2017 on these issues and potential ways to address challenges and drive solutions.&nbsp;</font></font>
</div>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><font><br></font></font>
</div>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><font><strong>Research, Development, Investment, &amp; Workforce</strong></font></font>
</div>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><font><strong><br></strong></font></font>
</div>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><font>In 2017 the <a href="https://www.mainetechnology.org/news/maine-technology-institute-maine-innovation-economy-advisory-board-announce-release-2017-maine-innovation-economy-action-plan/" target="_blank">Maine Innovation Economy Action Plan</a>&nbsp;(Maine Technology Institute/ Maine Innovation Economy Advisory Board) recommended a "three-legged" approach to strengthen its innovation-based economy:</font></font>
</div>
<div>
<ol>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Growing R&amp;D Capacity: Increasing it's R&amp;D activity through growth and maintenance of the State's R&amp;D infrastructure, capacities, and resources;</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Increasing Human Capital: Developing, attracting, and retaining a workforce with skills that match the needs of Maine's current and future employers; and</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Cultivating a Culture of Entrepreneurship: Continuing to develop and cultivate the education, mentoring, financial, and cultural supports for the successful emergence and growth of entrepreneurial and innovation enterprises.&nbsp;</font></li>
</ol>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><font>Under the Action Plan, the State will "encourage innovation based on technology, market, and/or business model, as well as encouraging enterprises to build on Maine's unique competitive assets."</font></font>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><font><br></font></font>
</div>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><font>Should the Maine Energy Roadmap incorporate this approach as it pertains to energy policy? Maine's energy market faces challenges. Although relatively large in area, Maine has a small population and lacks large-scale energy customers and investors. As a result, Maine energy and technology companies often individually lack the ability to scale up to meet market needs. Neighboring New Hampshire and Vermont face similar situations. Some companies report that they have poor access to investors. Venture capital investment per capita in Maine is only $5.08 in all sectors - significantly lower that regional peers Vermont ($22.06), New Hampshire ($105.90) and Massachusetts ($430.00).</font></font>
</div>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><font><br></font></font>
</div>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><font>Fortunately, for a relatively small, rural state, we have significant energy support organizations that can help implement the recommendations in the final Roadmap:</font></font>
</div>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><font><br></font></font>
</div>
<div align="center">
<table width="99%" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" watable="1" class="contStyleExcSimpleTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center"><strong><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">&nbsp;Support Area</font></strong></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center"><strong><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">&nbsp;Resources</font></strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Business Development, Accelerators, and Incubators</font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Maine Accelerates Growth, Maine Center for Entrepreneurial Development, Maine Small Business Development Centers</font></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Economic Development</font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Maine and Company, Maine Economic Growth Council, Maine International Trade Center, Maine Rural Development Authority, Midcoast Regional Redevelopment Authority</font></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Educational Institutions</font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Maine Community College System; University of Maine System; and private colleges such as Bates, Bowdoin, Colby, and Unity</font></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Energy Efficiency, Environmental, and Renewable Energy Groups</font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Alliance to Save Energy, American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy</font></td>
</tr>
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<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Government Agencies</font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Efficiency Maine Trust, Maine Department of Economic &amp; Community Development, Maine Department of Environmental Protection, Maine PUC, U.S. DOE</font></td>
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<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Information &amp; Outreach Resources</font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">E2Tech, GreenEnergyMaine.com, Maine Energy Education Program</font></td>
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<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Investment Community</font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Coastal Enterprises, Inc., Finance Authority of Maine, Maine Angels, Maine banks and credit unions, Small Enterprise Growth Fund</font></td>
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<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Manufacturers, Natural Gas, Construction</font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">&nbsp;Bath Iron Works, Cianbro, Fairchild Semiconductor, LL Bean, Maine Manufacturing Extension Partnership, Reed &amp; Reed, Maine Manufacturers Association, Summit Natural Gas</font></td>
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<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Regional Partners</font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">InterACTION, Environmental Business Council of New England, Northeast Clean Energy Council</font></td>
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<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Renewable Energy &amp; Energy Efficiency Companies</font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">&nbsp;Energy efficiency contractors, Maine Energy Systems, Ocean Renewable Power Company, Pika Energy, ReVision Energy</font></td>
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<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Trade Associations</font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Maine State Chamber of Commerce, Maine Renewable Energy Association, Maine Energy Marketers Association</font></td>
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<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">Utilities</font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">&nbsp;Emera Maine, Central Maine Power, Maine Natural Gas, Bangor Natural Gas, Unitil, Summit</font></td>
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<font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><font><strong>Innovation &amp; Market Competitiveness</strong></font></font>
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<font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><font><strong><br></strong></font></font>
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<font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><font><span>The general public in Maine is typically unaware of the economic, environmental, and job creation benefits of energy and technology innovation and of the policies that govern the energy sector. It is often challenging to build political support for the sector (and/or public sector investment). How do we develop a Roadmap that encourages support for energy technology innovation and communicates the benefits of a strong energy production, manufacturing, and service sector, and strategies for policy and public/private partnerships, support, and investment to improve public awareness?</span></font></font>
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<font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><font><span><br></span></font></font>
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<font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><font><span>Maine's forest products industry is often held up as an example of where energy policy can help drive innovation. Maine's competitive advantages in this sector are evident: ample wood resources, a strong forestry sector, patented technologies, a university research center, established manufacturing capacity for biomass and biofuels, and potential ports for export to Europe. As the most forested state in the nation and one with a deep forestry industry, Maine has a natural resource-based competitive advantage in wood-based products for heating and power generation. Maine's well-established forest products industry is ideally prepared for further expansion of biomass and biofuels energy with unmatched infrastructure, equipment, knowledge, management practices, and a trained labor force. The Roadmap may be an opportunity to engage pulp and paper mills, loggers, wood pellet manufacturers, boiler distributors and installers, regional, economic, and development officials, investors, and policymakers to use the Roadmap to develop a policy and promotion strategy for this industry and the companies that serve it. As one of the first tests of the Roadmap and its application to Maine's energy sector, the Roadmap could be applied to the electric and thermal biomass industry to promote Maine and New Englnad as a regional hub for clean energy businesses and technologies, including their development and commercialization, manufacturing facilities and other partner businesses and/or organizations with experience in designing, financing, developing, and constructing biomass energy infrastructure and customer bases that are consistent with the assets in Maine and throughout New England.&nbsp;</span></font></font>
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<font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><font><span>Maine is perceived to have a regulatory and business environment that is slow to embrace innovation or new approaches. From a policy perspective, regulatory actions move slowly and energy incentives are inconsistent. In addition, an analysis of "<a href="https://wallethub.com/edu/energy-costs-by-state/4833/" target="_blank">2017's Most &amp; Least Energy-Expensive States</a>" by personal finance website WalletHub ranked Maine as the seventh most expensive energy state, including price of electricity, natural gas, motor fuel, and heating oil. The <a href="http://www.americaspower.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Family-Energy-Costs-2016.pdf" target="_blank">study</a>&nbsp;found that in the United States, energy costs account for between 5% and 22% of families' total after-tax income, with the poorest Americans, or 25 million households, paying the highest of that range (Maine is a relatively poor and rural state).</span></font></font>
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<font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><font><span>A 2014 MTI report finds that the alternative energy sector grew nearly 12% since 2007 and is growing faster than the other technology sectors in Maine. Maine's traditional economy is based on forestry, fishing, and agriculture. Manufacturing industries like paper production and textiles thrived until recently. Alternative energy, on the other hand, is an emerging sector of the Maine economy, made up of firms and organizations engaged in activities ranging from renewable energy production and generation to technology system distribution and installation to weatherization and efficient building construction and retrofits. Maine is well positioned to play a key role in developing expertise in the sector. The University of Maine launched the nation's first offshore floating wind turbine. Ocean Renewable Power Company in Eastport is operating the first grid-connected tidal power system in the Northern Hemisphere. Maine has 17 wind farms that can generate 901 MW of power, enough to supply 145,000 homes. These wind farms generated 1,614 thousand MWh in 2016. The State has extensive hydropower capacity that can generate 750 MW of clean energy. In 2016, Maine generated 2,968 thousand MWh of hydroelectric power. Thermal biomass systems take advantage of Maine's significant forestry industry and the use of wood pellet systems can reduce heating bills by an average of 40% while creating jobs and keeping investment dollars in the State. Even Maine's oil industry is increasingly engaged by designing and maintaining boilers with higher energy efficiencies and using less oil to produce more heat!</span></font></font>
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<font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><font><span>The growing demand for energy resource, technologies, products, and services, as well as global efforts to combat climate change, provide opportunities for Maine's knowledge, skills, and capabilities. Understanding how the Maine labor market is changing is an important component of effective public policy decisions and workforce training initiatives. Also, capturing innovation and attracting investments through a coordinated entrepreneurial ecosystem is critical for startups and mature companies alike.</span></font></font>
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<font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><font><span>The case for a new "Energy Innovation Policy" rests not just with the entrepreneurial and startup community. The case for a reliable electricity generation and transmission and distribution system may rest on growth in the innovation sector, specifically incorporating distributed and grid-scale energy storage markets and solutions to the intermittency of wind and solar - what happens when the sun doesn't shine and the wind doesn't blow? On-site batteries and power control systems, emerging technologies, cost trends, and the rise of a robust electric vehicle and infrastructure market will impact how Maine developers, utilities, and customers develop and operate storage systems for variable generation and microgrids, smart grids, and other innovations. And, electric utilities like CMP and Emera Maine are working to improve reliability of the grid and implementing pilot programs (e.g., heat pumps, voltage optimization).&nbsp;</span></font></font>
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<p><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><strong><em>Energy Innovation Task Force</em></strong></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;">On Thursday, July 20, the GEO and E2Tech hosted an Energy Innovation Task Force meeting; below is a brief outline of some key take-aways:</font></p>
<ul>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><strong>Role of State Government:</strong> The State’s role should be long-term planning and eliminating barriers to commercialization by minimizing policy uncertainty, which can create business uncertainty and investment risk.&nbsp;</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><strong>Energy Policy:</strong> Existing state policies do not touch on innovation; it is more focused on integrating renewables. We need a new way to engage in innovation and bring products and services to market that help Maine’s economy. Maine should be technology agnostic in funding and regulations.</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><strong>Electrification:</strong> How do we fund the infrastructure needed to increase the electrical load from transportation and heating electrification?&nbsp; A durable and predictable funding source needs to be identified to realistically address this issue.</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><strong>Competitive Advantages:</strong> New England has high energy costs but Maine‘s renewable sources can be a competitive market advantage.</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><strong>Incorporating New Technology:</strong> Innovation and energy storage can play a market role and provide other services to the grid at a consistent value.</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><strong>Workforce:</strong> Training and education gaps in Maine’s workforce need to be addressed.</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 12px;"><strong style="">Maine Technology Institute (MTI):</strong> <span style="">MTI is an excellent example of productive State funding for research and development (R&amp;D) and has undergone significant improvements recently through internal planning and restructuring.&nbsp;</span></font></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div align="center"></div>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5268434
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5268434Melissa WinneMon, 18 Sep 2017 17:21:00 GMTSave the Date! E2Tech Expo 2017 (September 2017)<p><font face="Tahoma"><strong><br></strong></font></p><font face="Tahoma"><strong>Thursday, November 16 from 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM at University of Southern Maine-Portland</strong><br></font>
<p><font face="Tahoma">The third annual E2TECH EXPO will be the premier environmental and energy event of the year! Federal and state agencies, policymakers, energy and environmental companies, and other innovation “enablers” are on tap to advise attendees on strategies for Maine’s economic and business development future. E2Tech Expo 2017 will engage private, public, and non-profit stakeholders to help both startups and established companies access the resources they need to:</font></p><font face="Tahoma">1) Promote their products, services, and technologies;<br>
2) Accelerate their growth;<br>
3) Compete in national and global markets; and<br>
4) Support a robust and innovative state environmental and energy market and workforce and make Maine an innovation hub to start and grow a business.<br></font>
<p><font face="Tahoma">Don’t miss out on valuable networking and the chance to learn more about the critical resources available to the energy, environmental, and cleantech sectors. More information will be posted at <a href="https://e2tech.org/">http://www.e2tech.org/</a>. For information on sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities, contact Jeff Marks at jeffmarks@e2tech.org.&nbsp;</font></p>
<p><br></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5266480
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5266480Mon, 18 Sep 2017 17:20:00 GMTE2Tech Sustaining Partner Highlight: Modern Grid Partners (September 2017)<p><font face="Tahoma"><br></font></p>
<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/ModernGridPartners_March2017_trans.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="490" height="120"><br></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">Modern Grid Partners is a utility consulting firm that provides business and technology expertise to their customers’ operations, projects, and future grid goals. As a small and focused consulting firm, Modern Grid Partners is a nimble team of utility experts dedicated to successful implementation of Smart Grid technology. Modern Grid Partners was founded in 2015 with the goal of becoming a trusted advisor to their utility partners, with its corporate office located in Portland, Maine. Modern Grid Partners has steadily grown since inception and holds multiple contracts with utilities in the United States and Canada.&nbsp;</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">&nbsp;<span style="">Modern Grid Partners has supported forward thinking utilities across North America with the successful planning and deployment of Smart Grid and Water related systems and technologies. Based on their team’s expansive experiences, they know the people, processes, and technologies required for successful advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) implementation. This includes a deep understanding of the equipment life cycle, operating costs, operational savings, revenue cash flow impacts, and return on investments.</span></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">&nbsp;<span style="">Modern Grid Partners is passionate about helping their utility clients and the industry embrace emerging technologies, drive value in renewables integration, and optimize the delivery of AMI solutions. Each of their consultants has more than fifteen years of direct utility expertise. As a trusted advisor and utility partner, they work with their clients to evaluate both the technical and organizational performance of new technologies, processes, and project implementations. Modern Grid Partners is proud of their depth of talent, deep domain utility knowledge, and breadth of experience to lead and integrate AMI from start to finish.</span></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">Modern Grid Partners becomes part of the planning and deployment teams. They work together to deliver results through business case development, infrastructure strategy and design, CIS integration, RFP development, and vendor evaluations.&nbsp;</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">The alignment of business and technology expertise to support a utilities operation, projects, and future goals is a challenge all electric companies face in 2017. By bringing together engineers, business consultants, and project managers, all with smart grid expertise, a more reliable grid can be achieved. Choosing Modern Grid Partners means choosing global expertise, localized knowledge, and a resume full of success with AMI, Telecom, GIS, CIS, OMS, SCADA, and other emerging smart grid solutions. From early stage planning to project closeout, Modern Grid Partners can help align the strategic vision to drive new levels of connectivity and IT/OT convergence that the future grid will be based upon.</font></p>
<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma"><strong>Modern Grid Partners became a founding E2Tech <a href="https://e2tech.org/Sustaining-Partners">Sustaining Leader</a> in 2017.</strong></font></p>
<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma"><strong>Learn more about our <a href="https://e2tech.org/membership">Sustaining Partner Program</a>!</strong></font></p>
<p><br></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5266456
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5266456Mon, 18 Sep 2017 17:19:00 GMTMTI TechStart & Seed Grant Workshops (September 2017)<p><font face="Tahoma"><br></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">MTI is holding free TechStart and Seed Grant workshops in early October. These grants are for entrepreneurs and companies who are developing innovative products, processes, or services.&nbsp; The TechStart Grants (up to $5,000) can be used to conduct market research, develop a business plan, and file for patent protections. The Seed Grants (up to $25,000) can be used to develop a prototype, demonstrate proof of concept, and conduct field trials.&nbsp; For more information and to register for this free event, visit <a href="http://www.mainetechnology.org/workshops" style="">http://www.mainetechnology.org/workshops</a>.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma"><strong>Portland Workshop</strong></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">Wednesday, October 4 12:00-2:00 PM</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma"><strong>Bangor Workshop</strong></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">Thursday, October 5 12:00-2:00 PM</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma"><strong>Webinar</strong></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">Wednesday, October 11 2:00-3:30 PM</font></p>
<p><br></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5266486
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5266486Mon, 18 Sep 2017 17:19:00 GMTThe Name is "Bond"... Stimulate Investments with Maine Businesses Bond! (September 2017)<p><font face="Tahoma"><br></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">On June 13, 2017, a general fund bond issue for investments in research, development, and commercialization was approved by voters in a statewide vote. That bond included $45,000,000 to be distributed by the Maine Technology Institute (MTI) “in the form of grants to support infrastructure, equipment, and technology upgrades in the following targeted technology sectors: biotechnology, advanced technologies for forestry and agriculture, information technology, and precision manufacturing technology” (Maine Office of the Secretary of State).</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">MTI plans to distribute about half of the bond funds through a series of Lightning Rounds before the end of 2017. Interested applicants must meet all program requirements, including being a Maine organization; providing at least a 1:1 cost share for the project; using the funds for infrastructure (capital construction, improvements, or equipment costs); be associated with research, development, and commercialization innovation; and be within or intersect with one or more of Maine’s seven technology sectors. The application involves registering proposals on MTI’s online portal and submitting a 10-slide project pitch deck. Slide decks will be accepted after October 2, 2017 and will be considered monthly through December 8, 2017.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">For more information on MTI’s Technology Asset Fund program requirements visit: <a href="https://www.mainetechnology.org/program/maine-technology-asset-fund-2-0/">https://www.mainetechnology.org/program/maine-technology-asset-fund-2-0/</a></font></p>
<p><br></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5266488
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5266488Mon, 21 Aug 2017 14:00:00 GMTMaine's 128th Legislative Session - Year 1 (August 2017)<p align="center"><br></p>
<p align="left"><font face="Tahoma">Maine's first year of a two-year 128th Legislative Session closed in August with a brief government shutdown, dozens of Gubernatorial vetoes, and a slate of energy and environmental bills passed, carried over, or dead!</font></p>
<p align="left"><font face="Tahoma">The fate of solar "net energy billing" was decided amongst a cluster of constitutional, political, and parliamentary maneuvers. Mining regulations survived after years of dueling advocacy campaigns thrust the issue to the top of environmental and business legislative agendas. Small wins for recycling, clean water, and renewable portfolio standards occurred alongside defeats of bills pertaining to on- and offshore wind projects, building code standards, and plastic bag moratoriums. Biomass, microgrids, large-scale hydro, and arsenic testing live to fight another day in the 2nd half of the legislative session in 2018.&nbsp;</font></p>
<p align="left"><font face="Tahoma">The following list highlights the status of a representative list of energy and environmental bills. For more information about bills' status, contact Jeff Marks at jeffmarks@e2tech.org.</font></p>
<p align="left"><font face="Tahoma">Bills that passed:<br></font></p>
<ul>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD56 "An Act to Include Milliliter and Smaller Liquor Bottles in the Laws Governing Returnable Containers"</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 454 "An Act to Ensure Safe Drinking Water for Maine Families"</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 803 "An Act to Improve Transparency in the Electricity Supply Market"</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 820 "An Act to Protect Maine's Clean Water and Taxpayers from Mining Pollution"</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 1061 "An Act to Increase Investment and Regulatory Stability in the Electric Industry"</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 1151 "An Act to Allow Promotional Allowances by Public Utilities"</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 1313 "An Act to Establish Energy Policy In Maine"</font></li>
</ul>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma">Bills that died:</font>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 57 "An Act to Phase Out the Use of Single-Use Plastic Shopping Bags" (veto not overridden)</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 529 "An Act to Ensure Resiliency of the Maine Electrical Grid" (veto not overridden)</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 901 "An Act to Amend the Laws Governing the Determination of a Wind Energy Development's Effect on the Scenic Character of Maine's Special Places (veto not overridden)</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 1062 "An Act to Expand the Availability of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in Maine" (veto not overridden)</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 1262 "An Act to Protect Monhegan Island by Limiting Wind Turbines (unanimous "Ought Not to Pass" report from the Committee on Energy, Utilities, and Technology)</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 1392 "An Act to Allow Municipalities to Opt Not to Enforce the Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code" ("Ought Not to Pass" report was accepted in both the House and Senate)</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 1504 "An Act to Modernize Rates for Small-Scale Distributed Generation" (veto not overridden)</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 1513 "An Act to Provide for Affordable Long-Term Energy Prices in Maine" (unanimous "Ought Not to Pass" report from the Committee on Energy, Utilities, and Technology)</font></li>
</ul>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma">Bills to be carried over to the next session:</font>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 40 "An Act to Strengthen Requirements for Water Testing in Schools"</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 131 "An Act to Protect the Biomass Industry"</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 257 "An Act to Enable Municipalities Working with Utilities to Establish Microgrids"</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 260 "An Act to Create the Maine Energy Office"</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 532 "An Act to Remove the 100-Megawatt Limit on Hydroelectric Generators Under the Renewable Resources Law"</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 656 "An Act to Improve the Ability of Maine Companies to Manufacture and Market Bioplastics</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 1224 "An Act to Allow for Greater Energy Competition in Maine by Amending the Law Governing Electric Generation or Generation-Related Assets by Affiliates"</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 1373 "An Act to Protect and Expand Access to Solar Power in Maine"</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 1444 "An Act Regarding Large-Scale Community Solar Procurement"</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 1515 "An Act to Reduce Electric Rates for Maine Businesses by Amending the Laws Governing Spending from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative Trust Fund"</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">LD 1632 "An Act to Establish the Manufacturing Jobs Energy Program"</font></li>
</ul>
<div align="center">
<font face="Tahoma">The 2nd half of the 128th Legislative Session begins in January 2018.</font>
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<font face="Tahoma"><br></font>
</div>
</div>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5035537
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5035537Melissa WinneMon, 21 Aug 2017 13:30:00 GMTLeaked Draft Reports Sink Alternative Facts (August 2017)<p><br></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">Two leaked Federal reports on energy and climate change are generating lively discussions on how the Trump Administration and Congress may tackle these issues in future legislative and executive actions.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">"It is <em>extremely likely</em>&nbsp;[95-100%] that human influence has been the dominant cause of the observed warming since the mid-20th century" is the conclusion of a nearly 700-page draft <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2017/08/07/climate/document-Draft-of-the-Climate-Science-Special-Report.html" target="_blank">Climate Science Special Report</a>.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">And according to the U.S. Department of Energy's <a href="http://fingfx.thomsonreuters.com/gfx/reuterscom/1/32/32/GRID%20Study.pdf" target="_blank">Electric Power System, Markets, and Reliability Study</a>, low natural gas prices, higher maintenance costs for aging infrastructure, and reduced electrical demand are the primary causes for coal and nuclear plant retirements, and not the proliferation of new renewable energy generation across the country.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">The U.S. Global Change Research Program's Climate Science Special Report is part of the fourth congressionally mandated National Climate Assessment. A report draft was made available earlier in 2017 for public comment but did not reach most American households until <em>The New York Times</em>&nbsp;reported about it earlier this month. The purpose of the Climate Science Special Report is to document "the state of science relating to climate change and its physical impacts" and does not assess the literature for climate change mitigation, adaptation, economic valuation, societal responses, or policy recommendations. A White House committee of political appointees from thirteen agencies must approve the report in order for the final reports to be released this fall, however, this committee was disbanded on Sunday, August 20.&nbsp;</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">The report discusses the physical drivers of climate change detection and attribution of climate change, climate variability and large-scale circulation, temperature and precipitation changes in the United States, changes in land and sea cover, sea level rise, ocean acidification, and compound extremes and tipping elements. Some of the more concerning findings of the report include:&nbsp;</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;"><font>Temperature</font><br></font></p>
<ul>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">16 of the last 17 years are the warmest years on record globally, with 2016 being the hottest year on record.</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">The global annual average temperature from 1901-2016 has increased <font>by&nbsp;1.8°F/1.0°C. [Very High Confidence]</font></font></li>
<li><font><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">The average annual temperature over the continuous United States is projected to rise about&nbsp;2.5°F/1.4°C in the next few decades (relative to the average temperature from 1976-2005) in all emission scenario models. [High Confidence]</font></font></li>
<li><font><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">Extreme temperatures are projected to increase even more than average temperatures, and the number of days below freezing is projected to decline while the number of days above&nbsp;90°F will increase. [Very High Confidence]</font></font></li>
</ul>
<div>
<font style="font-size: 13px;"><font face="Tahoma"><font><font><span>Precipitation &amp; Storm Events</span></font></font></font></font>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><font><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">Since 1980, the cost for extreme weather events in the United States has surpassed $1.1 trillion.</font></font></li>
<li><font><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">Heavy precipitation events in most of the United States have increased in intensity and frequency since 1901, with the largest increases occurring in the Northeast. [High Confidence]</font></font></li>
<li><font><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">Extreme snowfall years in parts of the northern United States have increased, with winter storm tracks shifting northward since 1950. [Medium Confidence]</font></font></li>
<li><font><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">The Northeast has experienced a 92% increase in the number of 2-day precipitation events that exceed the 5-year recurrence interval from 1958-2016.</font></font></li>
</ul>
<div>
<font style="font-size: 13px;"><font face="Tahoma"><font><font>Oceans</font></font></font></font>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><font><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">Oceans have absorbed about 93% of the excess heat caused by greenhouse gases since the mid-20th century, causing waters to be warmer and altering global and regional climate feedback loops.</font></font></li>
<li><font><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">Oceans are currently absorbing more than 1/4 of the carbon dioxide emitted to the atmosphere annually from human activities.</font></font></li>
<li><font><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">The oceans are becoming more acidic, with higher latitude systems exhibiting seasonal corrosive conditions sooner than low-latitude systems (higher-latitude systems typically have a lower buffering capacity against changing acidity). [Very High Confidence]</font></font></li>
<li><font><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">The rate of acidification is unparalleled in at least the past 66 million years. [Medium Confidence]</font></font></li>
<li><font><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">In the Gulf of Maine, acidification is regionally greater than the global average as a result of changes in freshwater input. [Medium Confidence]</font></font></li>
<li><font><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">Global mean sea level has risen about 7-8 inches since 1900, with about 3 of those inches occurring since 1993. [Very High Confidence]</font></font></li>
<li><font><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">Nuisance floods (tidal floods) have increased 5- to 10-fold since the 1960s in several U.S. coastal cities and will continue increasing in depth, frequency, and extent before 2100. [Very High Confidence]</font></font></li>
<li><font><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">Sea level rise will increase the frequency and extent of extreme flooding due to coastal storms (e.g. hurricanes and nor'easters). [Very High Confidence]</font></font></li>
</ul>
<div>
<font style="font-size: 13px;"><font face="Tahoma"><font><font>Greenhouse Gas Emissions</font></font></font></font>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><font><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">Global mean atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration is over 400 ppm, a level last present over 3 million years ago and combined with significantly higher average global temperature and sea level. [High Confidence]</font></font></li>
</ul>
<div>
<font style="font-size: 13px;"><font face="Tahoma">"Humanity is conducting an unprecedented experiment with the</font> <font face="Tahoma">Earth's climate system through emissions from large-scale fossil fuel combustion, widespread deforestation, and other changes to the atmosphere and landscape" and as with any futuristic modeling, predictions, and scenarios, there are factors and elements that cannot be accurately accounted. The more Earth's climate system is changed, the greater the risk of surprises. There are two types of surprises: critical threshold, where some threshold is crossed within the climate system that results in a large impact, and compound events, where multiple extreme climate events occur either simultaneously or sequentially to create a greater overall impact. Either or both types of surprises could occur within the Earth's climate system in the future, creating unanticipated and difficult or impossible to manage changes.</font></font>
</div>
<div>
<font style="font-size: 13px;"><font face="Tahoma"><br></font></font>
</div>
<div>
<font style="font-size: 13px;"><font face="Tahoma"><strong>Confidence Level Ranking</strong></font></font>
</div>
<div>
<font style="font-size: 13px;"><font face="Tahoma"><strong><br></strong></font></font>
</div>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="">Very High</span>: Strong evidence (established theory, multiple sources, consistent results, well documented and accepted methods, etc.), high consensus</span></font>
</div>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br></span></font>
</div>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="">High</span>: Moderate evidence (several sources, some consistency, methods vary and/or documentation limited, etc.), medium consensus</span></font>
</div>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br></span></font>
</div>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="">Medium</span>: Suggestive evidence (a few sources, limited consistency, models incomplete, methods emerging, etc.), competing schools of thought</span></font>
</div>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br></span></font>
</div>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="">Low</span>: Inconclusive evidence (limited sources, extrapolations, inconsistent findings, poor documentation and/or methods not tested, etc.), disagreement or lack of opinions among experts</span></font>
</div>
<div align="center">
<br>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<font><font face="Tahoma"><br></font></font>
</div>
<div>
<font><font><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">The <strong><a href="http://fingfx.thomsonreuters.com/gfx/reuterscom/1/32/32/GRID%20Study.pdf" target="_blank">Electric Power System, Markets and Reliability Study</a>&nbsp;</strong>was developed by the Department of Energy's (DOE) Office of Electricity Delivery &amp; Energy Reliability per the memorandum issued by Secretary Rick Perry on April 14, 2017. The original study deadline was mid-June, with a DOE spokesperson stating the study draft would be submitted to Secretary Perry in early July with no new release date mentioned. The memo asked the DOE Chief of Staff to focus on three issues:&nbsp;</font></font></font>
</div>
<div>
<ol>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">The evolution of wholesale electricity markets, including the extent to which federal policy interventions and the changing nature of the electricity fuel mix are challenging the original policy assumptions that shaped the creation of those markets;</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">Whether wholesale energy and capacity markets are adequately compensating attributes such as on-site fuel supply and other factors that strengthen grid resilience and, if not, the extent to which this could affect grid reliability and resilience in the future; and</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">The extent to which continued regulatory burdens, as well as mandates and tax and subsidy policies, are responsible for forcing the premature retirement of baseload power plants.</font></li>
</ol>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">The leaked draft report assessed previous literature on the subject matter and also conducted original research. While some sections of the report were removed or unfinished, the sections that remained confirmed what most in the energy industry already knew. Some key report findings include:</font>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">Due to advances to the grid, baseload plants are not as necessary for grid reliability and resiliency.</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">Low natural gas prices, higher maintenance costs for aging infrastructure, and reduced electrical demand are the primary causes for coal and nuclear plant retirements.</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">The grid is operating reliably and has not been impacted by baseload plants retiring since more efficient and cheaper natural gas and renewable energy sources are coming online.</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">Energy diversity from renewable energy sources can improve grid reliability and lower electricity costs for customers.</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">Power plant retirements are driven by regional factors, with more retirements concentrated in the Northeast and the Mid-Atlantic.</font></li>
</ul>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 13px;">These reports, which effectively remove doubt regarding the causes and impacts of climate change, as well as concerns regarding renewable energy in the electricity grid, will still need to undergo internal political review and polishing. It is vitally important that scientific reports be objective and clear of political influence in order to provide the most accurate data to base future regulatory decisions. These reports provide that opportunity and hopefully remain as this essential source of information unaffected by political agendas.</font>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5036004
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5036004Melissa WinneMon, 21 Aug 2017 13:15:00 GMTNeed a Clue? Better Call Lew! E2Tech's Entrepreneurial & Startup Services (August 2017)<p align="center">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>
<p align="left"><font face="Tahoma" style="">Each year, E2Tech gathers thousands of Maine's business movers and shakers, educators, policy makers, and funders together with entrepreneurs, innovators, and startups for information on sharing and networking. We regularly connect environmental and energy innovators with funders, customers, suppliers, mentors, and partners using our diverse and wide network of members and partner organizations.</font></p>
<p align="left"><font face="Tahoma" style="">Our experience has shown that personal connections, introductions, and references are the most effective way to help entrepreneurs. Without a 'connector' they are isolated in their own silos - geographically and by business sector. They often lack knowledge of potential resources available to grow their business. This connector is crucial for our state.</font></p>
<p align="left"><font face="Tahoma" style="">Recently, E2Tech contracted with Lewis "Lew" Hinman, a seasoned executive with expertise in complex business environments in industrial, commercial, environmental, and aerospace markets. His work at United Technologies and Pratt &amp; Whitney gives him deep knowledge in strategic business development, technology development, and collaborative business structures with early-stage enterprises, OEMs, and service providers, as well as acquisitions, due diligence, and integration execution. He has broad international experience in Europe, Asia/Pacific, India, and South Africa.</font></p>
<p align="left"><font face="Tahoma" style="">Cindy Talbot with CJTalbot Services is another startup resource at E2Tech. She has been working with Maine companies to prepare federal and state grant applications for funding to support research, development, and demonstration projects. Cindy has provided support to companies seeking U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and National Science Foundation grants through SBIR/STTR or Broad Agency Announcements resulting in $1.1M in awards.</font></p>
<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma" style=""><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/Hinman.jpg" alt="" title="" border="0" width="125" height="188">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/CindyTalbot.jpg" alt="" title="" border="0" width="125" height="188"><br></font></p>
<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma" style="">To learn more about Lew &amp; Cindy, and how they might be able to help your<br>
companies, please contact Jeff Marks at jeffmarks@e2tech.org.</font></p>
<p align="center"><strong><br></strong></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5035771
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5035771Melissa WinneMon, 21 Aug 2017 13:00:00 GMTSustaining Partner Spotlight: Burns & McDonnell (August 2017)<p align="center"><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/BurnsMcDonnell_Feb2017_trans.png" alt="" title="" border="0" width="245" height="51"><br></p>
<p>Founded in 1898, <strong><a href="http://www.burnsmcd.com/" target="_blank">Burns &amp; McDonnell</a></strong> is a family of companies made up of more than 5,700 engineers, architects, construction professionals, scientists, consultants, and entrepreneurs with offices across the country and throughout the world. As a 100 percent employee-owned firm, each professional brings an ownership mentality to clients' projects. Employees plan, design, permit, construct, and manage facilities all over the world.</p>
<p>Throughout the past year, Burns &amp; McDonnell has expanded their operations in six Northeastern states: <a href="http://www.burnsmcd.com/locations/new-england" target="_blank">Connecticut</a>, <a href="http://www.burnsmcd.com/locations/portland-maine" target="_blank">Maine</a>, <a href="http://www.burnsmcd.com/locations/morristown" target="_blank">New Jersey</a>, <a href="http://www.burnsmcd.com/locations/new-york" target="_blank">New York</a>, <a href="http://www.burnsmcd.com/locations/philadelphia" target="_blank">Pennsylvania</a>, and <a href="http://www.burnsmcd.com/locations/boston" target="_blank">Massachusetts</a>. The firm first opened its doors in the Northeast in 2007 and has since grown 700 percent in the region.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"Our clients and communities are facing complex infrastructure challenges, creating a great need for quick, all-encompassing engineering, architecture, and construction solutions," says Earle Cianchette, Burns &amp; McDonnell Portland, Maine, Office Manager. "We're focused on immersing ourselves within our communities and continuing to grow our team so we can bring even more sustainable solutions to the table."</p>
<p>Backed by an international team of more than 5,700, the Northeastern offices work together to design and build the infrastructure that powers the region, military installations, commercial, aviation, and industrial facilities. The offices have successfully managed approximately $13 billion in projects with investor-owned utility, commercial aviation, manufacturing, and municipal clients. Known as a center for excellence in program management, the Burns &amp; McDonnell project approach is all about alleviating complex issues for clients.</p>
<p>"From concept to completion, we partner with our clients to develop innovative solutions for their specific needs and they reap the benefits of a quick, more seamless approach," says Cianchette. "Our employee-owners supporting Maine and the rest of the Northeast have diverse skill sets and experience, and a strong commitment to clients - elements that make our projects a success."</p>
<p>Burns &amp; McDonnell is recognized by <a href="http://www.burnsmcd.com/insightsnews/news/releases/2017/05/retains-top-2017-enr-power-ranking" target="_blank">Engineering News-Record as the No. 1 Firm in Power</a> and ranks among the <a href="http://www.burnsmcd.com/services/construction/safety" target="_blank">top five percent of contractors nationwide for safety</a>.</p>
<p>As the firm grows, its dedication to being a Best Place to Work remains constant. Burns &amp; McDonnell currently ranks No. 16 among <em>Fortune's</em>&nbsp;100 Best Companies to Work For and has been recognized by <a href="http://www.burnsmcd.com/about-us/honors" target="_blank">nearly 30 publications as a best place to work</a> across the country.&nbsp;</p>
<p align="center">Burns &amp; McDonnell joined E2Tech as a Sustaining Champion in February 2017.</p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5035938
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5035938Melissa WinneMon, 21 Aug 2017 12:45:00 GMTMaine Energy Roadmap - Upcoming Events & Meetings (August 2017)<p><br></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">The Governor's Energy Office (Maine GEO) and E2Tech are developing a new Maine Energy Roadmap through a Department of Energy State Energy Program grant. The objectives include achieving energy and cost savings in the residential, commercial, industrial, and transportation sectors; reducing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions; supporting the growth of a robust state and regional energy market and workforce; and facilitating stakeholder and inter-agency&nbsp;discussions. There are three phases of the Roadmap: Phase I - Baseline Development, Phase II - Expert Task Force Meetings, &nbsp;and Phase III - Action/Implementation Plan.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">In the next few months, the GEO and E2Tech will be hosting forums, task force meetings, workshops, and stakeholder meetings all over the state, and we value your participation.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">Upcoming Events (for more information, visit <a href="https://e2tech.org/events/forums-and-events"><strong>our events page</strong></a>):</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma"><strong>E2Tech Forum: Regional &amp; State Energy Policy</strong><br>
<font face="Tahoma">Thursday, September 7</font><br>
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.<br>
USM, Portland</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma"><strong>Public Input Stakeholder Meeting</strong><br>
Friday, October 13<br>
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.<br>
UMPI, Presque Isle</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma"><strong>E2Tech Forum: Maine's Heating &amp; Transportation Oil Dependence</strong><br>
Thursday, October 19<br>
8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.<br>
Maple Hill Farm, Hallowell<br>
<br>
<strong>Public Input Stakeholder Meeting</strong><br>
Friday, October 20<br>
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.<br>
Bangor/Orono (TBD)</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma"><strong>Public Input Stakeholder Meeting</strong><br>
Friday, October 27<br>
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.<br>
USM, Portland<br>
<br>
<strong>E2Tech Expo 2017</strong><br>
Thursday, November 16<br>
8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.<br>
USM, Portland</font></p>
<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma"><br>
For more information and to get involved, please contact E2Tech's Executive Director,<br>
Jeff Marks, at jeffmarks@e2tech.org or (207) 956-1970.</font></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5035830
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/5035830Melissa WinneThu, 13 Jul 2017 14:58:00 GMTThe New World Energy Order of Trump (July 2017)<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma"><strong><br>
“For those concerned, don’t panic! For those excited, don’t get too euphoric.”</strong><br></font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma"><font color="#090000">These were the words spoken by Washington, DC lobbyist and Republican insider Darrell Henry at the November 2016 E2Tech Expo, less than two weeks after a historic nat</font><font color="#090000">ional election that catapulted real estate mogul and reality TV star Donald Trump into the role of Leader of the Free World.</font></font></p>
<p><font color="#1A1A1A" face="Tahoma">We are approaching the halfway point of President Trump’s first year in office.&nbsp; Where are we now?</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma"><font color="#090000">Henry, a partner at a Capitol Hill lobby shop, was making the point that global market forces will continue to drive energy and environmental activities, and any changes to environmental and energy policy will be gradual and measured. In other words, “there will be no return to ‘Drill, baby, drill,’ a reference to a 2008 Republican campaign slogan popularized by then Alaska Governor and Vice Presidential Candidate Sarah Palin.</font> <font color="#1A1A1A">Here are some of the main energy and environmental changes made by the current administration in its first 180 days:</font></font></p>
<p><font color="#1A1A1A" face="Tahoma"><strong>Executive Orders:</strong></font></p>
<p><font color="#1A1A1A" face="Tahoma">President Trump has issued six energy and environmental Executive Orders addressing agency regulations, expediting environmental reviews of high-priority infrastructure projects, offshore energy, national monument designations, energy independence and economic growth, and reviewing the "Waters of the United States." He has also issued two Presidential Memoranda on the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline and the construction of the Dakota Access pipeline.</font></p>
<p><font color="#1A1A1A" face="Tahoma"><strong>Climate Change:</strong></font></p>
<p><font color="#1A1A1A" face="Tahoma">The United States became one of only three countries to not participate in the Paris Climate Agreement. The Green Climate Fund and Global Climate Change Initiative programs are both facing elimination in the State Department and the U.S. Agency for International Development FY 2018 presidential budget.</font></p>
<p><font color="#1A1A1A" face="Tahoma"><br></font></p>
<p align="center"><font color="#1A1A1A" face="Tahoma"><strong><img src="https://e2tech.org/resources/Pictures/Chart_Trump_Budget_DOE_EPA_JulyNewsletter_2017.JPG" alt="" title="" border="0" width="540" height="321" style="max-width: none;"><br></strong></font></p><font face="Tahoma"><strong>The Trump Budget:</strong><br>
<br>
President Trump announced his fiscal year 2018 budget proposal, with all agencies except the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of Veteran Affairs experiencing funding cuts.<br></font>
<ul>
<li><font><font face="Tahoma">Proposed Department of Energy (DOE) program eliminations include the Office of Weatherization &amp; Intergovernmental Programs, the U.S. State Energy Program (which is currently funding the development of Maine’s Energy Roadmap through the Governor’s Energy Office and E2Tech), and the Weatherization Assistance Program. &nbsp;</font><br>
<br></font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which helped heat 37,192 households in Maine in 2015, is facing elimination within the Department of Health and Human Services.&nbsp;</font><br>
<br></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">The Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed budget includes defunding multiple federal grant programs, including Beaches Protection, Nonpoint Source Pollution, Underground Storage Tanks, Water Quality Research and Support Grants, and Pollution Prevention, along with the Beach/Fish Programs, the Endocrine Disruptors Program, the Environmental Education Program, the Environmental Justice Program, the Marine Pollution Program, the National Estuary Program/Coastal Waterways, the Pollution Prevention Program, the RCRA: Waste Minimization &amp; Recycling Program, the Science Policy and Biotechnology Program, and the Lead Risk Reduction Program.&nbsp; Multiple projects within the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program (Energy Star, Combined Heat &amp; Power Partnership, Responsible Appliance Disposal Program, etc.) are facing elimination, along with the Global Change Research program, and the Surface Water Protection program.&nbsp; The Brownfields grant program has a proposed 30% decrease in funding which is currently funding the redevelopment of several Maine industrial and paper mill sites.&nbsp;</font><br>
<br></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">The National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration is facing, among others, the elimination of the Coastal Zone Management Grants Program, the Regional Coastal Resilience Grants Program, the National Estuarine Research Reserve System, the Interjurisdictional Fisheries Grants, the Coastal Ecosystem Resiliency Grants, the National Sea Grant College Program, the Marine Aquaculture Program, and the Office of Education.&nbsp; These NOAA programs provide federal funding for Maine departments, projects, programs, and industries.</font><br>
<font face="Tahoma"><br></font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">Within the Department of Interior, the Bureau of Land Management has proposed program cuts for every division except Energy and Minerals Management, the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement has proposed cuts to regulations, while the U.S. Geological Survey receives an overall 13% cut, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service receives an overall 5% cut, and the National Park Service receives an overall 5% cut, and the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management has a proposed 45% increase and the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement has a proposed 5% increase.&nbsp; These budget changes reflect the administration’s goals to increase resource extraction on public lands and offshore energy production to become “energy-dominant”.</font></li>
</ul>
<div>
<strong><font face="Tahoma">Energy Week?&nbsp;</font></strong>
</div>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma"><br></font>
</div>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma">The Trump Administration highlighted their energy-dominance plan during June 26-30 "Energy Week." Plans include increasing fossil fuel production through pipelines and harvesting on public lands to become a net exporter in fossil fuels, creating electricity with "clean" coal, increasing nuclear power, reducing energy regulations, and creating an "all of the above" energy portfolio. Read the full Energy Week message from Secretary Perry, Secretary Zinke, and Administrator Pruitt <a href="http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/jun/26/us-energy-dominance-is-achievable/" target="_blank">here</a>.</font>
</div>
<div>
<font style="font-size: 12px;"><font color="#1A1A1A"><br></font></font>
</div>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma"><font><font><font color="#1A1A1A"><span><strong>Trump's Major Energy &amp; Environmental Appointees<br>
<br></strong></span></font></font></font></font>
</div>
<div>
<table width="99%" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" watable="1" class="contStyleExcSimpleTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>&nbsp;Department</strong></font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>&nbsp;Director</strong></font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>&nbsp;President's Budget</strong><br></font></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;">&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: normal;">Environmental Protection Agency<br></span></font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;">&nbsp;Confirmed<span style="font-weight: normal;">: Scott Pruit</span></font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;">&nbsp; <span style="font-weight: normal;">-31%</span></font></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;">&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: normal;">Department of Energy</span></font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;">&nbsp;Confirmed<span style="font-weight: normal;">: Rick Perry</span></font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;">&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: normal;">-6%</span></font></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;">&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: normal;">Department of Interior</span></font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;">&nbsp;Confirmed:<span style="font-weight: normal;">&nbsp;Ryan Zinke</span></font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;">&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: normal;">-12%</span></font></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;">&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: normal;">Department of Commerce</span></font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;">&nbsp;Confirmed:<span style="font-weight: normal;">&nbsp;Wilbur Ross</span></font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;">&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: normal;">-16%</span></font></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;">&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: normal;">Department of Agriculture</span></font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;">&nbsp;Confirmed: <span style="font-weight: normal;">George Perdue</span></font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;">&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: normal;">-21%</span></font></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;">&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: normal;">National Aeronautics &amp; Space Administration</span></font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;">&nbsp;Acting:<span style="font-weight: normal;">&nbsp;Robert M. Lightfoot, Jr.</span></font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;">&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: normal;">-0.8%</span></font></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;">&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: normal;">National Science Foundation</span></font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;">&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: normal;">France Cordova (on year 3 of 6 year appointment)</span></font></td>
<td style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; border-color: #999999;" valign="top" align="center"><font face="Tahoma" style="font-size: 14px;">&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: normal;">-11%</span></font></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table><font color="#1A1A1A" face="PT Sans, sans-serif, WaWebKitSavedSpanIndex_0"><strong><br></strong></font>
</div>
<p><strong><font face="Tahoma">Executive Orders:</font></strong></p>
<ul>
<li><font face="Tahoma">January 24, 2017: <a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2017/01/30/2017-02029/expediting-environmental-reviews-and-approvals-for-high-priority-infrastructure-projects" target="_blank">Expediting Environmental Reviews and Approvals for High Priority Infrastructure Projects</a></font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">January 30, 2017: <a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2017/02/03/2017-02451/reducing-regulation-and-controlling-regulatory-costs" target="_blank">Reducing Regulation and Controlling Regulatory Costs</a></font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">February 28, 2017: <a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2017/03/03/2017-04353/restoring-the-rule-of-law-federalism-and-economic-growth-by-reviewing-the-waters-of-the-united" target="_blank">Restoring the Rule of Law, Federalism, and Economic Growth by Review the "Waters of the United States" Rule</a></font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">March 28, 2017: <a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2017/03/31/2017-06576/promoting-energy-independence-and-economic-growth" target="_blank">Promoting Energy Independence and Economic Growth</a></font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">April 26, 2017: <a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2017/05/01/2017-08908/review-of-designations-under-the-antiquities-act" target="_blank">Review of Designations Under the Antiquities Act</a></font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">April 28, 2017: <a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2017/05/03/2017-09087/implementing-an-america-first-offshore-energy-strategy" target="_blank">Implementing an American-First Offshore Energy Strategy</a></font></li>
</ul>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma"><font><font><strong>Memorandums:</strong></font></font></font>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><font face="Tahoma"><a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2017/01/30/2017-02035/construction-of-the-keystone-xl-pipeline" target="_blank">Construction of the Keystone XL Pipeline</a><br>
The State Department issued a permit on March 24, 2017.</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma"><a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2017/02/17/R1-2017-02032/construction-of-the-dakota-access-pipeline" target="_blank">Construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline</a><br>
The Army Corps of Engineers granted an easement on February 8, 2017.</font></li>
</ul>
</div>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/4974518
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/4974518Melissa WinneThu, 13 Jul 2017 14:37:41 GMTMaine Continues Ascent in 2017 U.S. Clean Tech Leadership Index (July 2017)<p><font face="Tahoma"><br>
The 2017 U.S. Clean Tech Leadership Index - a data-based comparison of all 50 states among 80 technology, capital, and policy indicators - finds that Maine improved its overall ranking from 18th to 16th since 2016, and surged ahead 13 places since 2014. Data is included on clean electricity and transportation; energy intelligence and green buildings, government regulations, mandates, and incentives; and financial, human, and intellectual capital. Findings for Maine across indicators show the following:&nbsp;</font></p>
<ul>
<li><font face="Tahoma">Overall: In 2016, Maine was ranked 18th; in 2017, Maine is ranked 16th (improved 2 spots).</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">Technology: In 2016, Maine was ranked 9th; in 2017, Maine is still ranked 9th (no change).</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">Policy: In 2016, Maine was ranked 19th; in 2017, Maine is ranked 20th (declined 1 spot).</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">Capital: In 2016, Maine was ranked 25th; in 2017, Maine is ranked 18th (improved 7 spots).</font></li>
</ul>
<div>
<p><font face="Tahoma">According to the Index, in the technology category, “Arizona, Maine, and Massachusetts started from the middle of the pack and have steadily evolved into category leaders over the last eight years…” Maine also shows great improvement in the capital category this year. The full report can be downloaded <a href="https://cleanedge.com/reports/2017-US-Clean-Tech-Leadership-Index?utm_source=CE+Master&amp;utm_campaign=4b2d4dfa4d-2017_Leadership_Index_Alert&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_term=0_a0c361efc9-4b2d4dfa4d-74101313">here</a>.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">According to E2Tech Executive Director Jeff Marks, “Maine has tremendous assets in its renewable resources. Over half of Maine's net electricity generation comes from wind, hydro, and biomass. Land-based wind turbines are providing power throughout New England and nearly 150 gigawatts of offshore wind potential exist off our coast, enough to power the State 70 times over. Maine is a global leader in tidal energy and is densely forested with 90% of its land covered with trees and a ready export market for woody biomass. States like Maine are making incremental cleantech progress through local development of energy resources and technologies, while also creating expertise and services that are exportable on a global scale.”</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">Marks credited leading Maine businesses and technologies, like Ocean Renewable Power Company’s tidal and river energy systems, Pika Energy’s clean power electronics, Rapport’s sustainability software, and Surge Hydro’s innovative dam facilities for enabling the growth of the sector but cautioned that “Maine must retain its leadership position through continued policy support for renewable energy, energy efficiency, and environmental initiatives, even in the face of political and policy headwinds from Washington DC. Certainty in the policy framework, as well as smart business and economic development planning, helps steer private investment to innovation in the cleantech sector. But, for now, we’re thrilled that our progress in the cleantech sector is once again being recognized on a national scale!”</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma"><br></font></p>
</div>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/4974567
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/4974567Melissa WinneThu, 13 Jul 2017 14:35:00 GMTOpportunities (July 2017)<p><font face="Tahoma"><br>
The U.S. Department of Commerce has been working to expand opportunities with the <a href="http://2016.export.gov/trademissions/canadarenewablesmission/" target="_blank"><strong>Renewable Energy Integration Trade Mission to Canada</strong></a> that takes place from October 30 - November 2, 2017.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">The mission is designed for U.S. companies who are active in the Canadian market with a focus on increasing operations, and new companies ready to launch their business interests. The mission will include market briefings, one-on-one business appointments with pre-screened potential buyers, agents, distributors, industry leaders, and joint venture partners; meetings with national, provincial, regional and municipal governments; and networking events. Participating in an official U.S. industry delegation, rather than traveling on their own, will enhance attending companies' ability to identify opportunities and act on available opportunities in Canada.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">As Canada plans to boost its installed generating capacity by 35GW to 170GW by 2035, strong opportunities are developing for U.S. exporters - aided policies promoting adoption of better energy management in commercial and residential buildings.&nbsp;</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma">Developing opportunities include:&nbsp;</font></p>
<ul>
<li><font face="Tahoma">Solar, wind, and hydro power generation</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">Grid modernization and smart grid deployment</font></li>
<li><font face="Tahoma">Storage solutions for utility-scale and distributed energy</font></li>
</ul>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma">Applications for U.S. business participants are being accepted through July 28, 2017. All U.S. Companies are encouraged to apply, as there are no obligations (financial or otherwise) for applying. <a href="https://emenuapps.ita.doc.gov/ePublic/TM/8R0J" target="_blank"><strong>CLICK HERE</strong></a> to apply.</font>
</div>
<div>
<font face="Tahoma"><br></font>
</div>
<div align="center">
<font face="Tahoma">For more information, visit the <a href="http://2016.export.gov/trademissions/canadarenewablesmission/" target="_blank">Renewable Energy Integration Trade Mission to Canada</a> page.</font>
</div>
<div align="center">
<font face="Tahoma"><br></font>
</div>
<div align="center">
<font face="Tahoma">For any questions, please contact Ethel Glen, <a href="mailto:Ethel.Glen@trade.gov">Ethel.Glen@trade.gov</a><br>
or Michael Marangell, <a href="mailto:Michael.Marangell@trade.gov">Michael.Marangell@trade.gov</a></font>
</div>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/4975055
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/4975055Melissa WinneThu, 13 Jul 2017 14:26:00 GMTLocal Energy and Environmental News (July 2017)<p><font face="Tahoma"><strong><br>
Funding Opportunities Coming Soon</strong>: A $50 million Research &amp; Development bond issue passed the statewide referendum on June 13 with 62% support. Of that $50 million, $45 million will go into the Maine Technology Institute managed Maine Technology Asset Fund, while $5 million will go to the Maine Venture Fund. The funds are to be used for infrastructure, equipment, and technology upgrades that enable organizations to gain and hold market share, to increase revenues, and to expand employment or preserve jobs for Maine people. Maine currently spends only about 1 percent of its total Gross Domestic Product on R&amp;D, which ranks the State 37th nationally.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma"><strong>Project Update</strong>: The Governor's Energy Office and E2Tech want to engage with you to develop an Energy Planning Roadmap that advances the state of Maine's energy, economic development, and environmental goals. In the next few months, E2Tech will be hosting forums, taskforce, workshop, and stakeholder meetings all over the state. For more information and to get involved, please contact E2Tech's Executive Director, Jeff Marks, at <a href="mailto:jeffmarks@e2tech.org">jeffmarks@e2tech.org</a> or (207) 956-1970.</font></p>
<p><font face="Tahoma"><strong>Networking</strong>: E2Tech had its <a href="https://e2tech.org/event-2556123">Summer Networking Reception</a> at the Verrill Dana Courtyard on June 28. Participants enjoyed delicious food and drinks, live music, and connecting with Maine businesses, government, and non-profit leaders. E2Tech, the Maine International Trade Center, and the University of Maine had the pleasure of welcoming prominent African leaders to Maine through the Mandela Washington Fellowship program. We would like to thank Verrill Dana for hosting this wonderful reception.</font></p>
<p align="center"><font face="Tahoma"><strong>Look for a review of the 128th Legislative Session's first year in our August newsletter!</strong></font></p>https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/4975063
https://e2tech.org/Newsletter/4975063Melissa Winne